Jan-2025

Ordnance Export Debut

• First Defence Export: India’s Ordnance Clothing Factory (OCF) in Avadi made its first defence export, fulfilling an order to the Republic of Suriname.

  • Why: This signifies a milestone in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities and export ambition.

• Products Exported: The export likely includes items manufactured by OCF Avadi, such as bullet-resistant jackets, ballistic helmets, vests, and bomb suppression blankets.

  • Why: Highlights the specific defence products India is now capable of supplying internationally.

• Future Soldier System: OCF is developing advanced soldier systems, including lightweight, digitally printed, antibacterial camouflage uniforms and lightweight ballistic helmets.

  • Why: Showcases India’s commitment to modernizing its defence equipment and increasing soldier effectiveness.

• Growth in Defence Exports: India’s defence exports have significantly increased, reaching over Rs 21,000 crore in 2023-24.

  • Why: Demonstrates the expanding global presence and potential of Indian defence industry with a target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.

• Suriname as Customer: The Republic of Suriname, a nation in South America, is the recipient of the initial export.

  • Why: Shows the reach of India’s defence industry and its ability to secure orders from international clients.

Quantum-Safe Crypto

• Quantum Computing Threat: Quantum computers possess the potential to break current encryption methods like RSA and ECC, widely used for secure online communication and data protection.
• SNDL Attacks: The risk of “Store Now, Decrypt Later” (SNDL) attacks, where data is stored encrypted and decrypted later by quantum computers when they become powerful enough, poses a significant long-term threat.
• Industry-Wide Risks: Sectors dealing with sensitive data, such as finance, healthcare, and government, face significant risks of data breaches if current encryption standards are compromised by quantum computers.
• Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): PQC, also known as quantum-resistant cryptography, is being implemented to counter the threat of quantum computers. These methods are designed to be secure against both classical and quantum computing attacks.
• VPN Adaptation: VPN companies are proactively integrating PQC to ensure their services remain secure against future quantum computing threats. VPNs encrypt data to protect online privacy and security.

Gitmo

• US President Orders Migrant Detention Center at Guantánamo Bay: An executive order directs preparation for a large-scale migrant detention center at the US naval base.

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• Guantánamo Bay’s Location and Strategic Importance: It’s a well-sheltered bay in southeastern Cuba with a narrow entrance, capable of accommodating large vessels. Its strategic location near the Windward Passage connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean Sea and Panama.

• Guantánamo Bay’s Existing Facilities: “Gitmo” has been used to house terrorism suspects since 9/11. It also has a smaller Migrant Operations Centre, historically used for migrants intercepted at sea.

• Capacity Concerns: The existing Migrant Operations Centre lacks the capacity to house a large number of detainees.

India’s SWF Need

• Creation of Bharat Sovereign Wealth Fund (BSWF) considered: India is exploring establishing a BSWF to unlock dormant national wealth.

• Definition of SWF: Government-owned funds investing state surpluses (natural resources, trade surpluses) for financial stability and economic growth.

• Why India needs a SWF:

  • Unlock Public Sector Wealth: Potentially unlocking Rs 40 lakh crore from listed state-owned enterprises.
  • Fiscal Deficit Reduction: Potential USD 10 billion annual generation through 2% government equity divestment.
  • Diversifying Investments: Reduce reliance on ‘secure’ securities like US treasuries.
  • Capitalizing on Excess Reserves: Better utilization of forex reserves.
  • Support for Strategic Sectors: Drive growth in electric vehicles, hydrogen energy, semiconductors, etc.
  • Social Welfare: Generate non-debt resources for social commitments.
  • Projecting Soft Power: Support advocacy, disaster relief, and investment in other nations’ SWFs.

• Concerns Associated with SWFs for India:

  • Current Account Deficit: India has deficits, unlike typical SWF countries with surpluses.
  • Macroeconomic Risks: Global slowdown, debt, financial conditions could negatively impact SWF returns.
  • Geopolitical Tensions: Disrupt cross-border investments.
  • Environmental Risks: Potential losses from climate-exposed industries.
  • Technological Vulnerabilities: Fraud and data theft risks.

• Way Forward:

  • Clear Governance Framework: Transparency, accountability, compliance with Santiago Principles.
  • Strategic Asset Allocation: Focus on AI, biotech, EVs, semiconductors.
  • Fiscal Prudence: Phased allocation of resources, balancing deficit management and investment.
  • Risk Management: Mitigate macroeconomic risks and adopt ESG principles.

Critical Minerals Mission

• Approval & Outlay: Union Cabinet approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) with a total outlay of Rs 34,300 crore over seven years.
• Objective: Aims to reduce import dependence and achieve self-reliance in critical minerals for high-tech industries, clean energy, and national defense.
• Scope: Covers all stages, including exploration, mining, beneficiation, processing, and recycling. Focuses on both domestic and offshore exploration.
• Approach: “Whole-of-government” approach, involving various ministries, PSUs, private companies, and research institutions. Fast-track project approvals.
• Stockpiling: Provisions for stockpiling critical minerals to ensure sufficient reserves for future demand.
• International Strategy: Encourages Indian companies to acquire assets abroad and build trade ties.
• Infrastructure Development: Establishes mineral processing parks, promotes recycling, and supports related research, including a Centre of Excellence.
• Incentives & Funding: Financial incentives for domestic processing units. Expands PRISM initiative to fund startups and MSMEs in the sector.
• Need for the Mission:
  • Critical minerals are vital for green energy, electronics, defense, and medical equipment.
  • India is heavily dependent on imports, particularly from China.
  • Addresses surging lithium-ion battery demand driven by EV adoption.
  • Aligns with global trends of securing critical mineral supplies.
• Recent Developments:
  • India released a list of 30 critical minerals.
  • Amendments to mining laws streamline exploration and auctioning.
  • GSI is undertaking numerous exploration projects.
  • Customs duties on critical minerals have been eliminated.
  • KABIL acquired lithium exploration rights in Argentina.

GPU

• IndiaAI Mission & GPU Usage: Six companies will leverage newly available GPUs to develop Indian foundational AI models, as announced by the Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology. This highlights the government’s push for AI development using advanced computing infrastructure.

• GPU Definition: A GPU is an electronic circuit designed for rapid mathematical calculations. It’s a chip component similar to a CPU, but excels in parallel processing.

• GPU Evolution: Originally designed for 3D graphics rendering in the 1990s, GPUs have transformed computer software and video games. They now enable vivid and realistic on-screen visuals.

• Expanded GPU Applications: Beyond graphics, GPUs are now crucial in high-performance computing, machine learning, AI, weather forecasting, and cryptocurrency mining.

• CPU vs. GPU: CPUs handle general-purpose tasks with fewer, more complex cores, excelling in sequential processing. GPUs are optimized for specialized tasks like 3D rendering with numerous, simpler cores, and are superior in parallel processing.

• GPU Purpose: GPUs handle graphics-related tasks such as rendering graphics, applying effects, and processing videos.

• GPU Types: Integrated (built-in) and dedicated (discrete graphics cards).

• CPU’s Central Role: The CPU is the main processing device, acting as the computer’s control center.

Nicobarese People

• Why in News: A study published in the European Journal of Human Genetics has revised the timeline of Nicobarese migration to the Nicobar Islands.

• Revised Migration Timeline: DNA analysis suggests the Nicobarese ancestors arrived approximately 5,000 years ago, correcting the previous estimate of over 11,000 years ago.

• Genetic Link: The Nicobarese share ancestral ties with the Htin Mal community (Laos-Thailand region), supporting migration from Southeast Asia.

• Preservation of Genetic Identity: Geographical isolation has allowed the Nicobarese to maintain their genetic identity, aiding ancestry tracing.

• Linguistic Continuity: They have retained their Austroasiatic language roots (Khmuic branch), linking them to Southeast Asian populations.

• Geography: The Nicobarese inhabit the Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, part of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands Union Territory. The major islands are Car Nicobar, Kamorta, Nancowrie, and Great Nicobar.

• Ethnic Group: They belong to the Mongoloid ethnic group, with a population of over 27,000. They are classified into six territorial groups.

• Social Structure: They follow a patriarchal joint family system called Tuhet, which collectively owns land, coconut trees, and pigs.

Reclassifying DNTs

• News: An ethnographic study recommends reorganizing 179 Denotified Tribes (DNTs), Nomadic Tribes (NTs), and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (SNTs) into SC, ST, and OBC lists. Currently under NITI Aayog review.

• Recommendations: 46 communities for OBC, 29 for SC, and 10 for ST status across states/UTs. Uttar Pradesh potentially sees the most changes.

• Issue of Non-Traceability: 63 communities deemed “not traceable” posing a challenge for categorization and raising questions about assimilation.

• Categorization Corrections: Study suggests fixing the classification of 9 existing communities.

• SC/ST/OBC Inclusion Criteria:

  • SC: Extreme backwardness linked to untouchability.
  • ST: Primitive traits, distinct culture, isolation, backwardness.
  • OBC: Socio-educational and economic backwardness, underrepresentation.

• Procedure for Altering Lists:

  • Starts with State Government/UT proposal.
  • Scrutiny by Registrar General of India (RGI), NCSC/NCST for SC/ST, and National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) for OBC.
  • Evaluation by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment with RGI inputs.
  • Union Cabinet approval needed.
  • Constitutional Amendment Bill passed by Parliament with a special majority.
  • Presidential assent required for enactment.

• Why: Aims to address the socio-economic backwardness of DNTs, NTs, and SNTs by providing them access to reservation benefits available to SCs, STs, and OBCs, if recommendations are accepted.

Leprosy: An Overview

• World Leprosy Day: Observed annually on January 30th to raise awareness and dispel misconceptions about leprosy.

• What is Leprosy: A chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Affects skin and peripheral nerves primarily.

• Impact of Leprosy: Can lead to progressive and permanent disabilities if left untreated. Those affected often face stigma and discrimination.

• Global Prevalence: Classified as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), present in over 120 countries, with over 200,000 new cases reported annually.

• Transmission: Spread through droplets from the nose and mouth of untreated individuals after prolonged, close contact. Not spread through casual contact. Patient becomes non-infectious upon treatment initiation.

• Symptoms: Symptoms appear typically 3-5 years post-exposure. Key symptoms include disfiguring skin sores, lumps, or bumps that persist for weeks or months. Loss of sensation can occur in affected areas.

• Treatment: Curable with multidrug therapy (MDT) consisting of dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine.

• Curability: Leprosy is 100% curable with MDT.

• Immunity: Most people (approximately 95%) possess natural immunity and will not contract the disease even if exposed.

Mysterious Subject

• Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso Exit ECOWAS: These West African nations have withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States.

• Alliance of Sahel States: The three countries formed a separate alliance, seeking military support from Russia.

• Geopolitical Shift: The move signifies a distancing from the US and France.

• ECOWAS Background: ECOWAS is a regional group of 15 West African countries (before the withdrawal), established in 1975 to foster economic integration and development.

• ECOWAS Actions: ECOWAS has previously deployed peacekeeping forces, demonstrating its role in regional stability.

Gandhi Remembrance Day

• Martyrs’ Day/Shaheed Diwas: India observes it on January 30th annually.

• Commemoration: Honors those who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence.

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• Mahatma Gandhi’s Assassination: Focuses on the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi (“Mahatma Gandhi Punyatithi”).

• Date & Location: Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, at Birla House in Delhi.

• Assailant: Nathuram Godse assassinated him during an evening prayer.

• Tributes at Raj Ghat: People gather at Raj Ghat (Gandhi’s memorial in Delhi) for prayer meetings.

• Why: To remember and pay respects to Mahatma Gandhi and other martyrs for their role in India’s freedom struggle. Remembering his ideals and sacrifice is crucial for national reflection.

Household Spending Survey

• Survey Overview: The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released findings from the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES).

• Purpose of HCES: It collects data on household spending on goods and services. This data is crucial for:

  • Tracking economic well-being.
  • Updating the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
  • Measuring poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.
  • Analyzing Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE), a primary economic indicator.

• Key Finding: Urban-Rural Consumption Gap: The difference in consumption between urban and rural areas is decreasing across major Indian states.

• Key Finding: Rising MPCE: Average MPCE is increasing for all types of households in both rural and urban areas.

• Key Finding: State-wise Consumption Disparity: Kerala, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar show the smallest difference between urban and rural MPCE among 18 major states.

• Key Finding: Declining Inequality: Consumption inequality has decreased in both rural and urban areas for most major states between 2022-23 and 2023-24.

• Key Finding: Gini Coefficient Improvement: The Gini coefficient, a measure of inequality, has declined in both rural and urban areas nationally. Rural areas went from 0.266 to 0.237, and urban areas went from 0.314 to 0.284.

Contract Farming: India

• Positive Impact: Contract farming has shown success in India, especially with processed potatoes, suggesting potential for wider application.
• Contract Farming Model: Agreements between farmers and buyers specify price, quantity, quality, and delivery date before production.
• Advantages:
  • Efficient supply chains, reduced waste.
  • Access to credit, inputs, and extension services for farmers.
  • Increased farmer incomes.
  • Food safety improvements through training.
  • Better consumer prices by cutting out intermediaries.
• Concerns:
  • Power imbalances favoring large agribusinesses.
  • Risk of default by either farmers or firms.
  • Potential loss of control over land for farmers.
  • Environmental degradation from intensive practices.
  • Food insecurity due to prioritizing cash crops.
• Policy Status:
  • Model APMR Act (2003) introduced registration, dispute resolution.
  • Model Contract Farming Act (2018) promoted state-level authorities, FPOs, and insurance.
• Potato Production: India is the 2nd largest potato producer, with Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar being top producers.
• PepsiCo Case: Legal dispute over potato variety FL 2027 highlighted issues of farmers’ rights vs. plant variety protection.
• Way Forward:
  • Enhance farmer bargaining power through FPOs.
  • Strengthen land reform programs.
  • Develop product-specific strategies.
  • Protect farmers’ interests with legal frameworks.
  • Foster partnerships between government and agribusinesses.

Ax-4 Mission

• Axiom-4 (Ax-4) is the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Highlights the commercialization of space travel.
• Organized by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA. Showcases public-private partnerships in space exploration.
• The mission will launch on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Demonstrates the involvement of commercial space companies.
• The crew plans to spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS. Indicates the duration of the mission.
• The crew will conduct scientific experiments, technology demonstrations, and educational outreach. Explains the purpose of the mission beyond space tourism.
• Research areas include materials science, biology, and Earth observation. Highlights the scientific value and potential discoveries.
• Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force (IAF) officer and ISRO astronaut, is the mission pilot. Marks India’s participation and collaboration.
• Ax-4 will send the first Indian astronaut to the ISS. A significant milestone for India’s space program.
• The mission also carries the first astronauts from Poland and Hungary. Promotes international collaboration in space exploration.
• Crew includes Commander Peggy Whitson, Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański of ESA/Poland, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Lists the key members of the mission

Cultivating Cannabis

• Himachal Pradesh Pilot Study: The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has approved a pilot study by two universities for controlled cannabis cultivation.

• Controlled Cannabis Definition: Regulated cultivation of cannabis varieties with minimal intoxicating properties (hemp), strictly monitored to prevent misuse. THC content must be ≤ 0.3%.

• Focus on Non-Narcotic Uses: Emphasis on pharmaceutical and industrial applications, not recreational.

• Hemp Uses: Hemp can be used for textile, paper, food, cosmetics, biofuel, and CBD, useful for chronic pain treatment.

• NDPS Act, 1985: Prohibits cannabis resin and flower production/sale but allows exceptions for industrial and medicinal purposes under government regulation.

• State Government Authority: Section 10 allows states to regulate/permit/prohibit cannabis cultivation for medicinal/scientific use.

• Central Government Authority: Section 14 allows the central government to authorize/regulate cannabis cultivation for research or approved purposes.

Nemo Point

• Indian Navy’s Navika Sagar Parikrama-II: Two female officers aboard INSV Tarini crossed Point Nemo as part of their circumnavigation voyage.

• Point Nemo Defined: Also known as the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility, it’s the farthest point from any land on Earth.

• Extreme Remoteness: Located 2,688 km from the nearest landmass in the South Pacific Ocean.

• Nearest Land: Ducie Island (north), Motu Nui (northeast), and Maher Island (south, Antarctica).

• Sparse Marine Life: Due to its location within the South Pacific Gyre, the area has minimal marine life and clear waters.

• Space Junk Graveyard: Point Nemo’s remoteness makes it a preferred site for controlled disposal of space debris.

• Most Remote Location: Point Nemo is the most isolated spot on Earth, over 1,000 miles from civilization.

• Most Peaceful Country: Iceland held the title of the most peaceful country in the world in 2021.

• Most Visited Country: France is still the most popular tourist destination in 2024.

ECIR Summary

• Kerala Cooperative Banks Under Scrutiny: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered 18 Enforcement Case Information Reports (ECIRs) against cooperative banks/societies in Kerala to investigate alleged money laundering linked to financial irregularities.

• ECIR: ED’s Internal Document: An ECIR is the ED’s formal complaint entry, initiating proceedings like asset attachment and arrests under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

• Not Legally Defined: The PMLA Act (2002) doesn’t mention ECIRs. Its lodging is an ED practice before acting under PMLA.

• ECIR vs. FIR: While similar to a First Information Report (FIR), the Supreme Court ruled that an ECIR cannot be equated with an FIR.

• Internal Use: The ED considers the ECIR an internal document for case identification and departmental convenience.

• No Obligation to Share: The ED isn’t legally required to provide a copy of the ECIR to the accused.

• ED’s Reporting Authority: The ED reports to the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance.

• CBI vs. ED: The CBI investigates corruption cases; the ED focuses on money laundering.

• No State Permission Needed: The ED doesn’t need prior state government permission for investigations.

Coal Dust & Plants

• Coal dust harms plant health: A recent study highlights the detrimental effects of coal mining dust on plants and vegetation.

• Stomata Clogging: Coal dust clogs plant stomata, hindering carbon absorption. This negatively impacts ecosystem health.

• Range of Impact: Vegetation can be affected up to 30 km from coal mines, with the highest concentrations along transportation routes.

• Reduced Carbon Uptake: Plants covered in coal dust absorb significantly less carbon (2-3 grams less per square meter). This contributes to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide and exacerbates global warming.

• Impaired Photosynthesis and Transpiration: Dust accumulation obstructs stomata, affecting photosynthesis and water vapor release. Reduced transpiration can lead to overheating.

• Stunted Growth and Ecosystem Damage: The combined effects of coal dust pollution result in stunted plant growth, potential plant death, and damage to local ecosystems.

• Respiratory Hazards: Open-cast mining generates dust that pollutes air during blasting, drilling, and transportation, which poses respiratory risks.

e-Shram & Shortage Index

• e-Shram Microsite Launch: The Union Minister for Labour & Employment launched State/UT-specific microsites integrated with the national e-Shram database.

• Microsite Functionality: These digital platforms offer unorganized workers easy access to both Central and State welfare programs, employment opportunities, and skilling programs. Two way intergration with e-Shram portal helps in registration.

• Microsite Benefits for States/UTs: Ready-to-use digital infrastructure, reduced development costs, real-time analytics for policy decisions, and the ability to include tools specific to their labor market requirements.

• Microsite Features: Simplified registration, access to social security benefits, multilingual accessibility, and real-time updates on welfare schemes and employment opportunities.

• Significance of Microsite: Enhanced transparency and efficiency in delivering welfare services to unorganized workers.

• Occupational Shortage Index (OSI) Introduction: A data-driven tool to identify occupations facing shortages.

• OSI Purpose: To align job seekers’ skills with industry demands and bridge skill gaps in high-demand sectors.

• OSI Impact: Supports policymakers, training institutions, and businesses in workforce planning and skill development. Guides targeted skill development programs.

• e-Shram Portal Goal: To support and empower the unorganized workforce (e.g., landless agricultural laborers, small farmers, weavers).

Economy Survey 2024-25

• Why in News: The Economic Survey 2024-25 was tabled in Parliament by the Finance Minister, serving as a roadmap for reforms and growth, and setting the stage for the Union Budget 2025.

• Global Economy: Experienced moderate, uneven growth of 3.2% (IMF projection) in 2024. Manufacturing slowed due to supply chain issues, while the services sector remained robust. Inflation eased overall, but service inflation persisted.

• India’s GDP Growth: Projected at 6.3-6.8% in FY26. Estimated at 6.4% for FY25, driven by agriculture and services.

• Sector Performance:

  • Agriculture: 3.8% growth in FY25, fueled by record Kharif production.
  • Industry & Manufacturing: 6.2% growth, but manufacturing faced challenges due to weak global demand.
  • Services: Fastest-growing sector at 7.2%, led by IT, finance, and hospitality.

• External Sector: Overall exports grew by 6% in the first nine months of FY25. Service sector exports grew by 11.6% while merchandise exports grew 1.6%. Imports rose 5.2%, widening the trade deficit. India was a top remittance recipient, keeping the current account deficit at 1.2% of GDP.

• Challenges:

  • Geopolitical Uncertainties: Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Hamas conflict, and Suez Canal disruptions impacted trade, energy, and costs.
  • Inflation and Investment: Risks of synchronized global price increases persist, with food inflation a concern. Weak manufacturing demand slowed private investment.
  • Financial Risks: State fiscal stress due to rising subsidies and lower tax collections.

• Way Forward (Key Strategies):

  • Managing Geopolitics: Diversify trade routes and strengthen energy security.
  • Controlling Inflation: Expand food buffer stocks and promote climate-resilient agriculture.
  • Strengthening Finances: Improve tax collection, rationalize subsidies, and encourage state fiscal responsibility.

Sleeping Sickness

• Guinea Eliminates Gambiense HAT: WHO announced Guinea has successfully eliminated the gambiense form of Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) as a public health problem. This is significant progress in combating the disease.

• HAT Transmission: HAT, also known as sleeping sickness, is a parasitic disease transmitted through the bite of infected tsetse flies. It’s endemic in sub-Saharan Africa.

• Symptoms & Progression: Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, and joint pain. Without treatment, it progresses to neurological issues like confusion, sleep disruption, and behavioral changes, eventually leading to fatality. Symptoms can take weeks to months to appear post-infection.

• Two Forms of HAT:

  • Trypanosoma brucei gambiense: Found in West and Central Africa (92% of cases), causes a chronic illness with subtle initial symptoms.
  • Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense: Found in East and Southern Africa (8% of cases), causes an acute disease.

• At-Risk Populations: Rural populations dependent on agriculture, fishing, animal husbandry, or hunting are most exposed.

• Elimination Successes: Togo, Benin, Ivory Coast, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, and Chad have also been validated by WHO for eliminating the gambiense form of HAT.

• Treatment: Nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT) or fexinidazole.

• Diagnosis: Microscopic examination of chancre fluid, lymph node aspirates, blood, or bone marrow.

• HAT in Cattle: Called Nagana.

Fingerprint Forensics

• News Trigger: Investigation into attack on a Bollywood actor highlighted the importance of fingerprint evidence in crime solving.

• Fingerprint Use: Used to confirm prior criminal records or match prints from crime scenes to suspects.

• Legal Framework: The Criminal Procedure (Identification) Act, 2022 allows storage of fingerprints of those arrested for crimes punishable by over a year in prison. Henry Classification System (HCS) is used for unique pattern identification.

• Constitutional Position: Article 20(3) protects against self-incrimination, but this protection doesn’t extend to compulsory provision of fingerprints.

• Judicial View – Kathi Kalu Oghad Case (1961): SC ruled compulsory fingerprinting does not violate Article 20(3).

• Judicial View – Ritesh Sinha vs State of Uttar Pradesh Case (2019): Expanded the scope to include voice samples without violating self-incrimination rights.

• Judicial View – Selvi vs Karnataka Case (2010): Narco-analysis and lie-detector tests (if forced) do violate self-incrimination rights.

• Why it matters: Fingerprint evidence is a crucial tool in criminal investigations but must be balanced with constitutional rights against self-incrimination. Court rulings define the boundaries of acceptable evidence collection.

Mutual Credit Guarantee

• Central Government Approval: The central government has approved the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme (MCGS) for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This is significant because it aims to ease access to finance for MSMEs.

• Guarantee Coverage: The scheme offers 60% guarantee coverage by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) for credit facilities up to ₹100 crore. This reduces the risk for lenders, encouraging them to lend to MSMEs.

• Purpose of Loans: The scheme is designed for loans to MSMEs for the purchase of equipment/machinery. This promotes investment in productive assets and modernization.

• Loan Eligibility: Borrowers must be MSMEs with a valid Udyam Registration Number. This ensures that the scheme targets genuine MSMEs.

• Project Cost Allocation: A minimum of 75% of the project cost must be allocated for equipment or machinery. This focuses the loans on asset creation.

• Repayment Period & Moratorium: Repayment periods can extend up to 8 years with up to a 2-year moratorium on principal installments for loans up to ₹50 crore. Flexibility in repayment terms helps MSMEs manage their cash flow.

• Upfront Contribution: A 5% upfront contribution of the loan amount is required at the time of application. This demonstrates the borrower’s commitment.

• Annual Guarantee Fees: No fees during the year of sanction. During the next 3 years, it shall be 1.5% p.a. of loan outstanding as on March 31 of previous year. Thereafter, Annual Guarantee Fee shall be 1% p.a. of loan outstanding as on March 31 of previous year.

• Scheme Duration: The scheme is applicable to loans sanctioned within 4 years from the operational guidelines’ issue date, or until cumulative guarantees of ₹7 lakh crore are issued, whichever is earlier. This sets a timeline and a limit for the scheme’s operation.

Lala Lajpat Rai Jayanti

• Tribute Paid: The Prime Minister paid tribute to Lala Lajpat Rai on his 160th birth anniversary. This highlights his continued relevance in Indian history.

• Birth & Identity: Born on January 28, 1865, in Punjab, he was known as ‘Punjab Kesari’. This establishes his geographical roots and a popular title reflecting his regional significance.

• INC Leader & Lal-Bal-Pal: A prominent figure in the Indian National Congress (INC) and a member of the influential Lal-Bal-Pal trio. This emphasizes his political standing and association with other key freedom fighters.

• Opposition to Partition of Bengal & Support for Non-Cooperation Movement: He opposed the Partition of Bengal (1905) and supported the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920). This showcases his active involvement in significant nationalist movements.

• Home Rule League of America Founder: He founded the Home Rule League of America (1917). This indicates his efforts to garner international support for India’s independence.

• Protest Against Rowlatt Act & Jallianwala Bagh: He protested against the Rowlatt Act and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. This highlights his opposition to oppressive British policies.

• Death During Simon Commission Protest (1928): He died from injuries sustained during a lathi charge while protesting the Simon Commission (1928). This underscores his ultimate sacrifice for the cause of independence.

Lateral Entry Hurdles

• Legal Challenges: The Lateral Entry Scheme (LES) is challenged for potentially conflicting with Article 309 of the Constitution regarding public servant recruitment rules and for excluding reservations, which undermines social justice.

• Short Tenure: The 3-year contract tenure may be insufficient for effective governance adaptation and accountability.

• Scale & Justification: Using Article 310 for large-scale recruitment of senior, non-permanent roles is debated. The necessity is questioned given existing officer pools.

• Conflict of Interest: Concerns arise about potential biases influencing policy due to private-sector backgrounds, and insufficient vetting processes for appointees.

• Bureaucratic Morale: The influx of lateral entrants may negatively impact the morale of career bureaucrats, potentially leading to resistance and hostility.

• Reservation Issue: Lateral entry positions are exempt from reservation policies due to being considered “single posts,” leading to opposition and withdrawal of recruitment efforts in some instances.

Fiscal Health ’25

• NITI Aayog Launches Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025: Aims to improve fiscal governance by evaluating the fiscal health of 18 major Indian states for 2022-23.

• Comprehensive Evaluation Tool: The FHI assesses states using five sub-indices: Quality of Expenditure, Revenue Mobilization, Fiscal Prudence, Debt Index, and Debt Sustainability.

• Objective: To guide state-level policy interventions for sustainable economic growth, fiscal consolidation, and improved resource management.

• Encourages Competition: Motivates states to align fiscal strategies with national economic goals.

• Top Performers: Odisha leads with the highest FHI score, followed by Chhattisgarh, Goa, Jharkhand, and Gujarat. Strengths include Debt Index, Revenue Mobilization, and Fiscal Prudence.

• Revenue Mobilization Leaders: Goa, Telangana, and Odisha demonstrate strong revenue generation and fiscal prudence.

• Challenges for Some States: Punjab, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala face significant fiscal challenges. Punjab and Kerala struggle with debt sustainability and expenditure quality. Andhra Pradesh struggles with high Fiscal Deficits.

• Capital Expenditure: Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Goa, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh allocate a high percentage to capital expenditure, promoting long-term investments. West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan allocate the lowest percentages to capital expenditure.

• Debt Management Disparities: Odisha and Goa manage debt effectively, while West Bengal and Punjab exhibit growing debt burdens, raising sustainability concerns.

Darfur

• Drone Attack on El-Fasher Hospital: A recent drone strike on one of the last operational hospitals in El-Fasher, Darfur, resulted in 67 deaths and numerous injuries. This highlights the escalating violence and its direct impact on civilian infrastructure and healthcare access in the region.

• Darfur’s Location and Size: Darfur is a region in western Sudan, bordering Libya to the north and Chad to the west. It covers a vast area of approximately 440,000 sq km.

• Geographical Diversity: Darfur’s landscape includes rolling plains, volcanic highlands (Marrah Mountains), deserts, and seasonal water sources.

• Historical Significance: Darfur was an independent sultanate until 1916, when it was annexed by Sudan. The name “Darfur” means “land of the Fur” in Arabic, referencing the Fur tribe’s historical rule.

• Diverse Population: Darfur is home to about 80 tribes and ethnic groups, including nomadic and sedentary communities. Arabs are the majority in the north, while Arabs and Fur predominate in the south. Other groups include Beja, Zaghawa, Nubian, and Daju peoples.

• Darfur Plateau Location: The Darfur Plateau is located in the western part of Sudan, within the Darfur region.

• Sudan’s Capital: Sudan’s capital city is Khartoum, located at the confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers.

F11 Bacteria

• F11 Bacteria (Labrys portucalensis) Can Degrade PFAS: A recent study highlights the ability of F11 bacteria to break down “forever chemicals” (PFAS).
• PFAS are “Forever Chemicals”: These are toxic, man-made chemicals persistent in the environment, posing threats to health and contributing to environmental degradation. They accumulate in soil, water, and air.
• F11 Bacteria’s Origin and Adaptation: Originally isolated from contaminated industrial soil in Portugal, F11 bacteria are aerobic bacteria from the Xanthobacteraceae family. They thrive in polluted environments by using contaminants as energy sources.
• F11 Bacteria’s Degradation Capabilities: The bacteria can break down and transform at least three types of PFAS, including some toxic byproducts.
• Significance: This discovery offers potential for bioremediation of PFAS-contaminated sites using F11 bacteria. This can reduce the impact of these forever chemicals in the environment and protect human health.

RNA Therapeutics

• RNA therapy is emerging as a promising approach for treating genetic disorders, particularly inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). This is due to its ability to modulate biological pathways for targeted condition treatment.

• RNA therapy offers a safer alternative to DNA or genome editing. It makes temporary changes that do not affect future generations, thus minimizing long-term risks.

• RNA-editing with ADAR enzymes allows correction of specific genetic mutations at the RNA level. This can restore protein production in retinal cells without altering the DNA, offering a new treatment for retinal degeneration caused by single-point mutations.

• Suppressor tRNAs can bypass stop-codon mutations. These mutations prematurely halt protein synthesis in retinal cells; bypassing them allows for full-length protein production and restoration of retinal function in IRD patients.

• PTC124 (ataluren) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) demonstrate RNA therapy’s existing clinical applications. Ataluren is used for cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, while ASOs have successfully treated spinal muscular atrophy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

• RNA plays diverse biological roles. It carries biological information, provides structure, facilitates chemical reactions, and regulates DNA and other RNA molecules.

• Examples of RNA therapies include: antisense oligonucleotide (ASO), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and microRNA (miRNA) therapies.

• Reportedly, RNA has benefits such as promoting injury recovery, post-surgery healing, memory support, digestive health, and managing signs of aging.

SiC

• IIT-Madras Achieves SiC Extraction from Simulated Moon Soil: Researchers at IIT-Madras have successfully extracted silicon carbide (SiC) from simulated lunar soil.

• What is Silicon Carbide (SiC)? A synthetically produced crystalline compound of silicon and carbon (SiC), the most widely used non-oxide ceramic, discovered in 1891 by Edward G. Acheson. Its common name is Carborundum.

• Key Properties: Hardest ceramic material, excellent thermal conductivity, low thermal expansion, excellent mechanical properties, resistance to wear and oxidation, and semiconducting properties.

• Primary Application: Abrasive material due to its high hardness.

• Other Applications: Refractory linings, heating elements for industrial furnaces, wear-resistant parts (pumps, rocket engines), semiconducting substrates for LEDs.

• SiC as a Semiconductor: Exhibiting electrical conductivity between metals and insulators.

• Advantages Over Silicon: SiC has a higher breakdown electric field.

• Other benefits: Higher temperature capability.

Kanha Tiger Reserve

• Death of Tigress: A 2-year-old tigress was recently found dead in Kanha Tiger Reserve (KTR).
• Location: KTR is located in the Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh.
• Largest National Park: It is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh.
• Establishment: Kanha National Park was created in 1955 and became Kanha Tiger Reserve in 1973.
• Area: The reserve spans 940 sq. km.
• Habitat: Characterized by forests, undulations, hills, plateaus, and valleys.
• Inspiration for “The Jungle Book”: Believed by some to be the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book”.
• Tribal Communities: Home to ancient tribal communities like the Gond and Baiga.
• Mascot: The first tiger reserve in India to officially introduce a mascot, “Bhoorsingh the Barasingha”.
• Flora: Primarily moist Sal and moist mixed deciduous forest.
• Fauna: Significant population of Royal Bengal Tiger, leopard, sloth bear, and Indian wild dog.
• Barasingha Conservation: Globally recognized for saving the Barasingha (state animal of Madhya Pradesh) from near extinction.
• Unique Distinction: Harbors the last world population of the Barasingha deer species.
• River: Located on the banks of the Banjar River.
• Largest in IndiaNagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) located in Andhra Pradesh is the largest tiger reserve in the country.

Africa Energy Summit

• Summit Goal: To accelerate energy access across Africa, focusing on the “Mission 300” initiative. Why: Addresses the critical need for electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa.

• Mission 300 Target: Provide electricity to 300 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030. Why: Directly confronts the massive energy deficit in the region.

• Co-Hosts: Government of Tanzania, African Union, African Development Bank, and the World Bank. Why: Highlights the multi-institutional commitment to the initiative.

• Energy Access Deficit: Over 600 million Africans lack reliable electricity. Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa account for 80% of the global population without electricity. Why: Underscores the urgent need for action.

• National Energy Compacts: 12 African countries presented their plans (Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia). Why: National-level commitment is essential for achieving the ambitious goals.

• Compact Objectives: Achieve universal electricity access and clean cooking by 2030. Why: Aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7).

• Compacts as Roadmaps: The Compacts will serve as country-specific plans for achieving energy goals. Why: Provides a framework for implementation and accountability.

Emotional Contagion

• Crosspathy Definition: Practicing medicine outside one’s recognized expertise, specifically AYUSH practitioners prescribing allopathic treatments.

• Maharashtra FDA Directive (Dec 2024): Allowed homeopaths with pharmacology certificates to prescribe allopathic medicines.

• IMA’s Criticism: Warns of “crosspathy,” potentially harming patients due to inadequate training in allopathic medicine.

• Concerns: Misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatments, risks to patient safety, undermining medical qualifications.

• Legal Precedents: Poonam Verma Vs. Ashwin Patel (1996) established liability for homeopath prescribing allopathic drugs, constituting negligence unless state-authorized.

• Reasons for Promoting Crosspathy: Addressing specialist shortages in rural areas (80% deficit), expanding healthcare access in underserved regions, and affordability.

• Concerns Regarding Crosspathy: Violates NMC Act, 2019; contradicts national policies; compromises healthcare standards; ethical violations in hospital appointments; reduced opportunities for MBBS doctors.

• Way Forward: Strengthen GP system, incentivize rural medical posts, regulated framework for AYUSH-allopathic collaboration with additional training and supervision, promote telemedicine for remote healthcare access.

Singularity

• News: Department of Consumer Affairs, CSIR-NPL, and ISRO are drafting the Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time (IST)) Rules, 2025, to mandate IST adoption across all sectors, supporting “One Nation, One Time.”
• Key Features:
  • Mandatory IST: IST, maintained by CSIR-NPL, will be the sole legal time standard.
  • Synchronization: Government institutions, financial entities, telecom providers, power grids, and digital infrastructure must synchronize with IST.
  • Compliance: Monitored via audits with penalties for non-adherence.
• One Nation, One Time: Aims to create a unified timekeeping framework for governmental, industrial, technological, and societal applications. Government plans to set up five Legal Metrology laboratories across India to achieve microsecond-level accuracy in time dissemination.
• Why in News:
  • Self-Reliance: Reduces reliance on foreign GPS, mitigating national security and cybersecurity risks.
  • Precision: Enhances accuracy for critical sectors like 5G, AI, IoT, navigation, and power grids.
  • Efficiency: Improves financial transactions, regulatory compliance, and synchronization of digital devices.
  • Investment: Strengthens digital infrastructure, attracting global tech investments.
• Challenges:
  • Telecom Adoption: Telecom operators rely on foreign time sources.
  • Global Integration: Synchronization with global time standards (UTC, GMT) needed for international trade.
  • Infrastructure: Ensuring time synchronization across the country, including regions with limited connectivity.
  • Cybersecurity: Time synchronization systems are potential targets for cyberattacks.
• Way Forward:
  • Cybersecurity Measures: Implement robust encryption methods to protect time synchronization systems from cyberattacks. Develop backup systems for time dissemination to ensure resilience against potential disruptions.
  • Monitoring Authority: Establish a dedicated Centralized Monitoring authority to oversee the implementation and compliance of IST synchronization across all sectors.
  • Promoting Awareness: Educate industries, financial institutions, and public services on IST synchronization benefits , while collaborating with global standardization bodies for seamless international integration.
  • Research and Development: Invest in R&D to continuously improve timekeeping technologies and protocols, ensuring India remains at the forefront of precise timekeeping.

WHO: Less Sodium Salt

• WHO Recommendation: The WHO recommends lowering sodium intake to under 5g (2g sodium) per day for adults to combat hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and strokes.

• Lower Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS): The WHO promotes LSSS, which contain potassium chloride, magnesium sulphate, and calcium chloride, to reduce sodium consumption without affecting taste.

• Global Impact: Poor diets, including high sodium intake, contribute to a significant number of deaths globally.

• India’s Situation: India faces high salt intake (10.4g/day) and low potassium levels, increasing hypertension risks.

• India’s Response: India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) is implementing sodium reduction policies. This includes regulating the composition of edible salt and mandating accurate sodium labeling.

Bhashini Explained

• BHASHINI: AI-led Language Translation Platform: Aims to break down language barriers in India.
• Tripura’s Adoption: Northeast India pioneers AI for digital inclusion via BHASHINI’s text-to-speech tech.
• Goal: To enhance internet accessibility and digital services in Indian languages.
• Features: Incorporates voice-based functions and promotes content creation.
• Launch: Launched in July 2022 under the National Language Translation Mission (NLTM).
• Languages Supported: Aims to provide translation services in 22 scheduled Indian languages.
• Accessibility: Available through Android and iOS apps for user convenience.
• ‘Bhasadaan’ Section: Allows individuals to contribute to crowdsourcing initiatives.
• NLTM’s Objective: Making knowledge texts accessible in all 22 official Indian languages.
• Implemented by: Digital India BHASHINI Division under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• Intended Users: Indian MSMEs, startups, and individual innovators.
• Resource Availability: Aims to make AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP) resources publicly available.

Snakebite Crisis: India

• High Snakebite Mortality: India accounts for nearly half of global snakebite deaths (around 58,000 annually), making it a critical public health issue.

• “Big Four” Problem: Most deaths are attributed to the Indian cobra, common krait, Russell’s viper, and saw-scaled viper. Existing antivenom is polyvalent, created to counter these four snakes but not others.

• Rural Vulnerability: Rural communities, especially agricultural workers during monsoon season, face the highest risk due to increased snake encounters and limited healthcare access.

• Antivenom Access Barriers: Geographical barriers, cultural beliefs favoring traditional medicine, economic constraints, and logistical issues (inadequate cold storage) hinder timely and effective antivenom administration.

• National Action Plan (NAP-SE): The NAP-SE aims to halve snakebite deaths and disabilities by 2030 through prevention and control measures.

• Innovative Solutions: Research is underway to develop safer synthetic antivenoms, region-specific antivenoms, and rapid diagnostic tools for venom detection.

• Urban Risk Increase: Urbanization, poor waste management, and flooding are increasing snake-human encounters in cities.

• Neglected Tropical Disease: The WHO classifies snakebite envenoming as a neglected tropical disease of high priority.

• Role of Irula Tribe: The Irula tribe of Tamil Nadu plays a key role in venom extraction for antivenom production.

ISRO’s Century Launch

• ISRO’s 100th Launch: ISRO marked its 100th launch from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. This milestone signifies ISRO’s long-standing success and reliability in space missions.

• GSLV-F15 and NVS-02: The launch vehicle was GSLV-F15, which deployed the NVS-02 satellite. This highlights ISRO’s capabilities in using advanced launch vehicles like GSLV.

• NVS-02 Satellite: NVS-02 is the second satellite in the 2nd generation NavIC series. This is important for strengthening India’s indigenous navigation system.

• NavIC System: NavIC consists of 7 operational satellites providing accurate positioning within India and up to 1,500 km beyond. This emphasizes India’s self-reliance in navigation technology and its strategic importance.

• GSLV-F15 Significance: It was the 17th GSLV flight and the 11th with an Indigenous Cryogenic stage, showcasing ISRO’s advancements in cryogenic engine technology, essential for heavier payloads and complex missions.

• SDSC’s History: The first launch from SDSC was in 1979. This puts into perspective the evolution and growth of ISRO’s launch capabilities over the decades.

• Key Past Launches: Landmark missions like Chandrayaan-1, Mars Orbiter Mission, PSLV-C37 (record of 104 satellites), Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and Aditya-L1 were launched from SDSC, which show ISRO’s diverse mission portfolio and its global impact in space exploration.

Kara Sea Facts

• Nuclear Icebreaker Damage: The Russian nuclear-powered icebreaker “50 Let Pobedy” sustained damage after colliding with a cargo vessel in the Kara Sea, amid increased Russian Arctic activity.

• Location and Definition: A marginal sea of the Arctic Ocean, located north of Siberia, Russia.

• Area: Covers an area of 880,000 sq. km.

• Borders: Situated between Franz Josef Land (NW), Novaya Zemlya islands (W), and Severnaya Zemlya archipelago (E).

• Connections to Other Seas: The Kara Strait and Novaya Zemlya separate it from the Barents Sea (W); Severnaya Zemlya separates it from the Laptev Sea (E); connected to the Arctic Basin (N).

• Climate: One of the world’s coldest seas, ice-covered from September to May.

• River Drainage: Drained by rivers including the Kara, Ob, Pyasina, and Yenisei.

• Significant Islands: Contains islands such as Bely, Dikson, Kamennyye, Oleni, and Taymyr Islands. Nordenskiold Archipelago is the largest island group.

• Bordering Country: Bordered by Russia to the south.

• Novaya Zemlya: The Novaya Zemlya archipelago lies between the Kara Sea (east) and the Barents Sea (west).

• Barents Sea Location: A marginal sea of the Arctic Ocean, located off the northern coasts of Norway and Russia.

MSME Trade & Marketing (TEAM)

• Launch: Ministry of MSME, in partnership with ONDC, launched the MSME Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM) Initiative.
• Under RAMP: It operates under the “Raising and Accelerating MSME Productivity (RAMP)” Programme.
• Goal: To enable MSMEs to adopt digital commerce and broaden their market reach.
• Budget: ₹277.35 crore over 3 years.
• Target: Onboard 5 lakh micro and small enterprises, with 50% being women-led.
• ONDC Integration: Connects MSMEs to the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). Provides access to digital storefronts, payment systems, and logistics. This reduces barriers and expands customer access.
• Formalization & Trust: Emphasizes formalizing operations and creating digital transaction histories to boost credibility.
• Workshops: Over 150 workshops in Tier 2/3 cities, targeting key clusters, with focus on women and SC/ST-led enterprises.
• Workshop Purpose: Guides businesses on joining ONDC, creating digital catalogues, and using the ecosystem.
• ONDC Definition: An initiative promoting open networks for digital exchange of goods and services.
• MSME Importance: MSMEs drive economic growth through job creation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and GDP contribution.

Ghaggar River

• Ghaggar River Pollution: An NGT joint committee found the river’s Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) is 2-3 times the safe limit for outdoor bathing, indicating significant pollution.

• Intermittent River: The Ghaggar is a seasonal river, flowing only during the monsoon. It is called “dead river” because it depends on the monsoon rainfall to flow.

• Course: Originates in the Shivalik Hills (Himachal Pradesh), flows through Haryana and Rajasthan, and disappears into the Thar Desert.

• Ghaggar-Hakra River: The Hakra River in Pakistan is considered the continuation of the Ghaggar.

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• Historical Significance: Some historians believe the Ghaggar is the Vedic Saraswati River. Many Indus Valley Civilization settlements have been found along its banks. Sutlej and Yamuna rivers once flowed into it

• Tributaries: Key tributaries include the Kaushalya River, Markanda, Sarsuti, Tangri, and Chautang.

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Namdapha’s Realm

• Elephant Sighting: Namdapha Tiger Reserve (NTR) in Arunachal Pradesh recorded its first sighting of an adult male elephant in 12 years. This is significant because it highlights potential changes in elephant movement patterns and habitat use within the reserve.

• Migration Corridor Issues: Elephant migration between Namsai (Arunachal Pradesh) and Myanmar via NTR has been disrupted by encroachments since 1996. This is a critical issue as it confines elephants to northern areas and affects their access to resources and genetic diversity.

• Elephant Conservation: India hosts a significant portion of the global Asian elephant population. Asian elephants are classified as Endangered, making conservation efforts like securing migration corridors vital for their survival.

• Location and Recognition: NTR is located in the Changlang District of Arunachal Pradesh. It was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1972 and later a National Park and Tiger Reserve in 1983. Understanding its protected status is important for recognizing conservation efforts.

• Vegetation Diversity: NTR boasts a range of vegetation types including Northern Tropical Evergreen Forest, Moist Deciduous Forests, and Alpine Scrub Forests. Highlighting habitat diversity is crucial for biodiversity conservation and understanding the ecosystem.

• River System: The Namdapha River flows through the reserve. Rivers are the lifelines of forests so the river helps in ecosystem support.

What’s an Asteroid?

• Asteroids are rocky remnants from the solar system’s formation (4.6 billion years ago). Understanding asteroids helps us learn about the early solar system.

• They are small, rocky objects orbiting the Sun, mainly in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Asteroid location defines various types.

• Asteroids vary greatly in size, from pebbles to hundreds of miles in diameter. This size difference affects their behavior and potential impact.

• Some asteroids have moons, and binary/triple asteroid systems exist. This shows asteroids are more diverse than single rocky bodies.

• A 14-year-old boy from Noida was recognized by NASA for provisionally discovering an asteroid, ‘2023 OG40.’ Highlights the role of citizen science in asteroid discovery.

• The International Asteroid Discovery Project (IADP) enables citizen scientists to discover asteroids using software and datasets. IADP underscores importance of participation in hands-on astronomy.

• Ceres is the largest asteroid. Indicates the size range when compared to other asteroids.

• Asteroid impacts have shaped planetary geology and life on Earth. This shows their significant role in our history.

Sharavathy Macaques

• Conditional Approval for Pumped Storage Project: The State Board of Wildlife has conditionally approved the Sharavathy Pumped Storage Project within the Sharavathy Lion-Tailed Macaque Sanctuary. This is significant because it indicates potential development pressures within a protected area.

• Location and Composition: The sanctuary is situated in the Sharavathi River Valley of Sagar taluk, Shivamogga District, Karnataka, within the Western Ghats. It’s formed by combining the Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Aghanashini Lion-Tailed Macaque Conservation Reserve, and adjoining reserve forests, highlighting a consolidated conservation effort.

• Biodiversity Hotspot: The sanctuary is rich in flora like Dhoopa, Gulmavu and fauna including tiger, leopard, wild dog etc, making it a key area for biodiversity.

• Lion-Tailed Macaque Protection: It’s a crucial habitat for the endangered Lion-Tailed Macaque, endemic to the Western Ghats. Any development within the sanctuary could directly impact this species, raising conservation concerns.

OECMs & KMGBF Targets

• News: IUCN, WCPA, and WWF released “Guidance on Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs).”

• Purpose: To guide conservation of land, water, and marine areas towards achieving Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) Target 3 (30% conservation by 2030).

• What are OECMs: Geographically defined areas not protected areas, but managed for in-situ biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services. E.g., agricultural lands, forests.

• OECM Criteria:

  • Not a formal Protected Area.
  • Flexible governance (government, private, Indigenous, local communities).
  • Biodiversity conservation as a primary or secondary benefit.
  • Sustained, long-term in-situ biodiversity conservation.
  • Voluntary identification.

• Significance: OECMs expand global conservation networks without strict protected area formalities.

• OECMs vs. PAs:

  • PAs: Primarily for biodiversity, legally protected.
  • OECMs: Biodiversity incidental, voluntary, may lack formal protection.
  • OECMs complement PAs, enhancing connectivity.

• KMGBF: Adopted at CoP15, aims to halt/reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.

• KMGBF Target 3: Restore at least 30% of degraded ecosystems. It refers to global efforts and not a requirement for each country to allocate 30% of its land and water.

• India’s Biodiversity Targets: Align with KMGBF, including conserving 30% of areas, reducing invasive species, promoting sustainable consumption, etc.

• Impact: OECM guidelines support KMGBF’s ambitious conservation goals.

Scent of Success

• Focus on Northeast and J&K: The Aroma Mission prioritizes the Northeast region and Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) for development. This signifies a strategic emphasis on these regions for aromatic crop cultivation and industry growth.

• Aroma Mission Overview: The mission aims to boost India’s aroma industry by promoting the cultivation of aromatic crops and the production of essential oils. Also known as the Lavender Revolution, the mission seeks to diversify agriculture and generate revenue.

• Cultivation Focus: The mission concentrates on high-value aroma crops like lemongrass, lavender, vetiver, and palmarosa. This targeted approach ensures the production of essential oils with high market demand and profitability.

• IICON Inauguration: The Incubation & Innovation Complex (IICON) at CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat provides advanced technologies and facilities to farmers. This supports innovation and helps farmers adopt modern practices for aromatic crop cultivation.

• CSIR-NEIST Impact: CSIR-NEIST has introduced aromatic crops across 5,000+ hectares in the Northeast and established 39 essential oil distillation units. This demonstrates a significant expansion of aromatic crop cultivation and processing capabilities in the region.

• Potential Economic Impact: The mission aims to produce over 2000 tonnes of high-quality essential oils worth more than Rs. 300 crores annually. This translates to substantial economic benefits from essential oil production.

• Employment Generation and Increased Farmer Income: The mission is expected to generate 60 lakh man-days of rural employment and increase farmers’ income by Rs. 60,000 to 70,000 per hectare annually. The Aroma mission has a very high impact on the rural economy.

Asian Waterbird Census: Facts

• Record Bird Count in Coringa: The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2024 recorded 39,725 birds of 106 species in Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary and nearby wetlands. This highlights the area’s importance for waterbird populations.

• Citizen Science Initiative: The AWC is a citizen-science program. This emphasizes that the public’s involvement is critical for monitoring and conserving wetlands and waterbirds.

• International Collaboration: The AWC is part of the global International Waterbird Census (IWC), demonstrating a worldwide effort to track waterbird populations. Wetlands International coordinates the IWC.

• Extensive Coverage: Originating in the Indian subcontinent in 1987, the AWC now covers a vast region of Asia. This wide geographical scope makes it crucial for understanding waterbird trends across flyways.

• Flyway Focus: The census covers the East Asian-Australasian Flyway and a large part of the Central Asian Flyway. This is significant as it helps track migratory patterns and identify important staging areas.

• Indian Implementation: In India, the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) conduct the AWC. These organizations play key roles in data collection and conservation efforts.

• BNHS’s Role: The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is a key non-governmental organization for biodiversity research and conservation in India. It’s a BirdLife International partner.

• WII’s Mandate: The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change. Its involvement ensures governmental support for the census.

• IWC’s Global Reach: The International Waterbird Census (IWC) operates in 143 countries. This underscores the global scale of waterbird monitoring.

ASER 2024: Key Findings

• Modest Recovery in Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN): After COVID-19 learning losses, ASER 2024 indicates a slight improvement in basic reading and math skills among students. This is important because FLN are crucial building blocks for future learning.

• Government School Enrollment Fluctuations: Government school enrollment increased significantly during the pandemic but has slightly decreased in 2024, returning closer to pre-pandemic levels. This trend reflects shifting family choices and potential economic factors.

• Private School Enrollment Steady: Private school enrollment in rural India has seen a steady increase since 2006.

• Improved Arithmetic Skills: ASER 2024 shows a substantial increase in the percentage of Class 3 children able to do basic subtraction compared to both 2022 and pre-pandemic levels (2018). This signals an encouraging recovery and improvement in foundational math skills.

• Reading Levels Approaching Pre-Pandemic Rates: Reading levels for Class 5 students are recovering, nearly matching pre-pandemic levels overall. However, private schools have not yet reached pre-pandemic levels. This highlights the need for targeted interventions in specific areas.

• Digital Literacy vs. Educational Use: While most adolescents (14-16 years old) know how to use a smartphone, just over half use it for educational purposes. This indicates a need to bridge the gap between access and educational application of technology.

• Increased Teacher and Student Attendance: ASER 2024 reports an increase in both teacher and student attendance in government elementary schools. Higher attendance generally correlates with improved learning outcomes.

• ASER’s Purpose and Methodology: ASER is a household-based survey conducted annually by Pratham, assessing children’s schooling and learning levels in rural India. Its design includes all children, regardless of school enrollment or attendance status, offering a comprehensive view of education.

When-Listed Trading

• SEBI to Launch “When-Listed” Platform: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) plans to introduce a “when-listed” platform.
• Purpose: To facilitate trading of shares after an IPO closes but before official listing on stock exchanges.
• Goal: To curb activity in the unregulated grey market, which influences IPO listings.
• Current Listing Timeline: Shares are listed within T+3 days (T being the IPO closing day), with allotment on T+1.
• Grey Market Defined: Unofficial trading of securities before exchange listing, driven by supply and demand.
• Grey Market Influence: Investors use grey market premiums to gauge IPO interest.
• Grey Market Problem: Largely unregulated and can significantly influence listing outcomes.
• Platform Function: The “when-listed” platform is intended to provide a regulated alternative to grey market trading during the period between allotment and listing.
• Listed vs. Unlisted: Listed companies are regulated by SEBI; unlisted companies follow less stringent regulations.

ASER 2024: Elem. Ed.

• ASER 2024 Released: Pratham Foundation’s report reveals insights into schooling and learning in rural India based on a survey across 605 districts, reaching 649,491 children.
• Pre-primary Enrollment Up: Enrollment in pre-primary institutions for 3-5 year olds has increased since 2018.
• Elementary Enrollment Slightly Down: Overall enrollment for 6-14 year olds dipped slightly, with a decline in government school enrollment.
• Reading & Arithmetic Skills Improving: Std III students in government schools showed improved reading abilities, and Std VIII students demonstrated better arithmetic skills. Arithmetic abilities improved more than reading skills, with government schools showing faster progress than private schools.
• Dropout Rates Decreasing: Dropout rate for 15-16 year olds decreased significantly between 2018 and 2024.
• Smartphone Access High: Nearly 90% of 14-16 year olds have smartphone access, used for both education and social media.
• FLN Activities Implemented: Over 80% of schools implemented FLN activities, with teacher training provided.
• Attendance Improving: Student and teacher attendance has increased since 2018.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Slight improvements in usable girls’ toilets and drinking water availability in schools.
• State-Level Differences: Significant variations in learning outcomes and improvements across states since the pandemic.
• Elementary Education Significance: Foundation for future learning, development of social skills, and personal growth.
• Infrastructure Challenges: Many schools lack electricity and functional toilets.
• Technology Access Limited: Disparity in computer access between government and private schools.
• Teacher-Student Ratio Issues: Many schools have only one teacher.
• Social Divides: Caste, class, rural-urban, religious, and gender disparities affect education quality.
• Language Barriers: Lack of materials in regional languages limits access.
• Government Initiatives: Various programs like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and NEP 2020 are in place.
• Way Forward: Early Intervention, Literacy Programs, School Access, Parental Education.

Arribada

• Mass Nesting Event: Olive Ridley turtles are expected to arrive at the Rushikulya River mouth in Odisha for mass nesting (arribada), crucial for the species’ conservation.

• Arribada: This synchronized mass nesting behavior sees thousands of females nesting simultaneously. They travel long distances (9,000 km from Pacific to Indian seas).

• Key Nesting Sites in India: Rushikulya, Gahirmatha, Devi River mouth in Odisha, and Andaman Islands; Gahirmatha is the largest rookery.

• Appearance: Olive or grayish-green with a heart-shaped carapace; resemble Kemp’s ridleys.

• Habitat: Tropical Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans; both pelagic and coastal waters.

• Reproduction: Females nest multiple times per season, laying ~100 eggs per clutch. Hatchling sex is temperature-dependent.

• Diet: Omnivorous; eat jellyfish, snails, crabs, algae, and fish.

• Protection Status:

  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule 1
  • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
  • CITES: Appendix I

• Threats: Bycatch in fishing gear, poaching, habitat loss, coastal development, plastic ingestion, and climate change.

• Conservation Initiatives:

  • Operation Olivia (Indian Coast Guard) to prevent illegal trawling.
  • Mandatory Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) in trawls.
  • Tagging for tracking and habitat protection.

Organophosphates

• Recent Deaths in J&K’s Baddal Village: Doctors suspect organophosphate poisoning as a potential cause of 17 recent deaths that created panic among villagers.

• What is Organophosphate: A chemical commonly used in pesticides and insecticides. Absorbed through inhalation and ingestion.

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• How Organophosphate works: They are chemical compounds created through esterification using phosphoric acid and alcohol. Used to protect crops from pests and control insect-borne diseases. Also used in manufacturing plastics and solvents.

• Impact on Human Health: Disrupts nerve signal transmission, potentially causing fatal neurotoxicity. Can damage nerve fibers and inhibit “neuropathy target esterase.”

• Esterification: The chemical reaction that produces organophosphates by combining alcohol and acid to form an ester.

• Uses: Primary component of herbicides, pesticides, and insecticides.

• Examples: Malathion, Sarin, and VX are examples of organophosphate drugs.

• Antidotes: Atropine and pralidoxime.

• Advantage: Relatively fast degradation rates, making them considered safe for use on crops and animals.

Lezim

• Controversy: A Lezim dance scene in the upcoming Bollywood film Chhava, based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s life, has sparked controversy in Maharashtra.

• What is Lezim? It is a folk dance from Maharashtra. The dance is both physical exercise and dance drill.

• Lezim Instrument: The dance is named after the Lezim, a musical instrument which is a wooden stick with jingling cymbals attached, carried by the dancers. Dholki used as percussion music.

• Performance Aspects: Performed in formations (twos, fours, or circles), accompanied by a dhol or dhalgi. Originally no songs used in lezim, but later a song is sung.

• Traditional Use: Lezim earlier used in folk dance, today it is primarily used in Ganesha procession.

• Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj; came to power in 1681. Contemporary of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

• Health Benefits: Lezim dance has numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health.

• Types of Lezim: Military lezim (martial art form), talathekya, and samanyajananna are the main types.

Indian Squid

• Gene Expression Decoded: Researchers at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, have decoded the gene expression pattern of the Indian squid (Uroteuthis duvaucelii). This is significant as it provides insights into the squid’s biology and potentially its response to environmental changes.

• Also known as Indian Calamari: The Indian squid, or Indian calamari, is a cephalopod species common in Indian coastal waters. This is important for identifying and understanding the species.

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• Advanced Cephalopod: Squids, including the Indian squid, are known for their advanced nervous systems, problem-solving skills, and behaviors like camouflage and jet propulsion. This highlights the squid’s unique biological traits.

• Physical Characteristics: Typically 20-30 cm long (up to 50 cm), light pinkish-gray with two large fins, eight arms, and two longer tentacles. These physical traits aid in species identification.

• Habitat and Depth: Found in the Indian Ocean at depths of 100-500 meters, sometimes as deep as 1,500 meters. This helps to define the squid’s ecological niche. Prefers areas with high levels of dissolved oxygen.

• Distribution: Occurs in the Indo-West Pacific, from Mozambique to Taiwan. This maps its geographical range.

• Conservation Status: IUCN lists the Indian squid as “Least Concern.” This indicates that the species is not currently threatened, but monitoring is still important.

• Commercial Importance: Loligo duvauceli (synonym for Uroteuthis duvaucelii) is the most abundant and commercially important squid species.

UNRWA

• UNRWA’s Mandate: Established in 1949 by UN General Assembly Resolution 302 (IV) to provide relief and human development for Palestinian refugees. Its mandate has been repeatedly renewed, most recently until June 30, 2026.

• Operational Goal: To aid Palestinians who lost homes and livelihoods during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war following the establishment of Israel. It later expanded to include those displaced in and after the 1967 Six-Day War.

• Direct Service Delivery: Unlike many UN agencies, UNRWA directly provides services, including education, healthcare, relief, social services, camp infrastructure, microfinance, and emergency assistance.

• Reach: Supports over five million registered Palestinian refugees and their descendants in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza Strip, and West Bank (including East Jerusalem).

• Headquarters: Located in Amman and Gaza. Originally in Beirut, then Vienna, before moving to Gaza in 1996 to support the Arab-Israeli peace process.

• Funding: Primarily funded by voluntary contributions from UN member states, with some funding from the UN regular budget. Reports directly to the UN General Assembly.

• Gaza Control: The Gaza Strip is primarily controlled by Hamas since 2007.

• Palestinian Currency: Palestine does not have its own currency, primarily using Israeli shekels, US dollars, and Jordanian dinars.

• Language: Palestinian Arabic is the official and primary language spoken by Palestinians.

Algal Blooms

• Increasing HABs in India: India’s biodiverse coastline is facing a rise in Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).

• What are HABs: These are excessive algal growths visible to the naked eye, occurring in various water types (fresh, marine, brackish).

• Not all blooms are harmful: Most algal blooms are beneficial, serving as food for marine life. HABs are those with the potential to harm human or ecosystem health.

• Causes of HABs: Triggered by warmer water temperatures and nutrient pollution from sources like fertilizers and sewage.

• Types of Algae Involved: Cyanobacteria, dinoflagellates, and diatoms are the most frequent culprits in HABs causing illness.

• Impacts of HABs:

  • Toxin production leading to disease in vertebrates.
  • Oxygen depletion in water, causing marine life death.
  • Sunlight blockage, affecting underwater organisms.

• Red Tides: A specific type of HAB caused by rapid growth of algae, often dinoflagellates like Karenia species.

• Harmful Effects on Humans: Exposure can cause gastrointestinal issues, skin/eye irritation, allergic reactions, and breathing difficulties.

Kailash Pilgrimage

• Revival of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY): India and China have agreed to resume the annual pilgrimage.

• Significance of Mount Kailash: The mountain, located in Tibet, is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bons.

• Yatra Routes: India organizes the KMY via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim).

• Religious Importance:

  • Hinduism: Abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
  • Buddhism: Cosmic axis (Mount Meru).
  • Jainism: Ashtapada, where Rishabhanatha attained enlightenment.

• Geographical Significance: Source of major rivers: Sutlej, Brahmaputra, Kamali, and Indus. Lake Mansarovar is at its base.

• Unclimbed Peak: Mount Kailash remains unclimbed due to its sacred nature, despite being lower than Mount Everest.

Why these are in the news: The resumption of the KMY signifies improved relations between India and China, allowing pilgrims to visit the religiously significant site. Its importance to multiple religions as well as the geographical significance of the area give it further relevance.

Smartphone Impact: Teens

• Early Smartphone Use & Mental Health Decline: A study reveals a link between starting smartphone use early (ages 13-17) and worsening adolescent mental health, including increased aggression, anger, and detachment from reality.
• Online Risks: Early access exposes children to inappropriate content, disrupts sleep, and reduces crucial in-person social interactions.
• Gender Differences: Adolescent girls are more vulnerable, reporting higher rates of distress. Mental well-being decline is slower in India compared to the US, with only females in India showing decline while both genders in US show decline.
• Positive Impacts of Digital Access: Enhanced learning opportunities, personalised learning, skills development, social connection, and access to support.
• Negative Impacts of Digital Access: Sedentary behavior, screen addiction (causing anxiety, depression), privacy violations, cyberbullying, FOMO, reduced social interaction, violence exposure.
• India’s Initiatives for Online Safety: POSCO Act (sexual offenses), CHILDLINE 1098, digital literacy programs in schools, IT Act (punishment for online CSAM), Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) project. Productive Digital Access such as DIKSHA and PM eVidya.
• Way Forward: Implement Child Online Safety Toolkit, delay smartphone ownership (aim for at least 8th grade), enforce stronger regulations (like age verification/parental consent), promote digital literacy, increase mental health support (tele-helplines).

UNCTAD Investment Trends

• Why in News: UNCTAD’s Global Investment Trends Monitor 2024 reports an 8% decline in global Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), threatening funding for critical sectors needed for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Global FDI Trends: Overall FDI increased by 11%, but excluding conduit economies (tax avoidance havens), it decreased by 8%.

• Developed Economies: FDI surged (43%) but fell (15%) excluding conduit flows.

• Developing Economies: FDI declined by 2% after a 6% drop in 2023.

• Regional Trends:

  • Europe: FDI dropped 45% (excluding conduit economies).
  • North America: FDI rose 13%.
  • Africa: FDI surged 84%, driven by a large project in Egypt.
  • Asia: FDI decreased by 7%, with China declining 29%, ASEAN rising 2%, and India rising 13%.

• SDG Investments: Investments in SDG-related sectors decreased by 11%, impacting areas like renewable energy, infrastructure, and water/sanitation. Renewable energy project finance slowed significantly.

• 2025 Outlook: Global FDI is expected to grow moderately, driven by the US and EU. ASEAN, Eastern Europe, West Asia, North Africa, and Central America may benefit from supply chain shifts. India expects moderate FDI growth due to improved financing, M&A, and reforms.

• Influencing Factors: FDI growth depends on GDP, trade, inflation, geopolitics, technology, and policy.

• India’s FDI: Totalled USD 1,033.40 billion between April 2000 and September 2024. From 2014 to 2024, India attracted USD 667.4 billion in cumulative FDI, a 119% increase.

• India’s FDI Opportunities: Large market, growth, favorable demographics, government initiatives, and strategic location.

• India’s FDI Challenges: Regulatory hurdles, infrastructure gaps, and rigid labor laws. India expects technology transfer, job creation, and sustainable investments from investors.

Aadhaar for Trees

• Initiative: The Jammu & Kashmir government has started a “Tree Aadhaar” mission for the region’s Chinar trees.
• Purpose: To conserve Chinar trees through geo-tagging, mapping, and providing unique IDs. This aims to prevent unauthorized cutting.
• Process: Over 28,560 trees have been geo-tagged. Each tree receives a QR code with details like location, health, and potential threats. This utilizes GIS technology.
• Significance of the Chinar Tree: It’s the state tree of J&K, a major tourist attraction, and culturally significant in local art and crafts.
• Tree Characteristics: It’s a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a long lifespan. It takes 30-50 years to mature.
• IUCN Status: The Chinar is currently listed as Data Deficient.
• Mission Details: The “Tree Aadhaar” mission was launched in 2021.

NHM Achievements

• Why in News: The Central Government released a 2021-24 assessment report on the National Health Mission (NHM), highlighting progress in healthcare access and addressing health challenges, including COVID-19.

• Human Resource Expansion: NHM engaged over 12 lakh additional healthcare workers (medical officers, nurses, specialists, CHOs, AYUSH doctors) from FY 2021-24. 1.56 lakh Ni-kshay Mitra volunteers supported over 9.4 lakh TB patients.

• Mortality Rate Reduction: Significant declines since 1990: MMR decreased by 83%, U5MR by 75%, and IMR decreased from 39 (2014) to 28 (2020) and TFR dropped from 2.3 (2015) to 2.0 (2020).

• Disease Control: TB incidence reduced by 17.7% (2015-2023), mortality decreased by 21.4%. Kala-azar elimination achieved. Malaria cases declined initially in 2021, but rose in 2022 & 2023, though deaths decreased.

• Vaccination Campaigns: Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign achieved 97.98% coverage with Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 5.0. Over 220 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses administered (Jan 2021–Mar 2024). The U-WIN platform tracked vaccination in real-time.

• Healthcare Infrastructure: 7,998 public health facilities certified under National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS). 1.72 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs operational.

• Specialized Initiatives: Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP) delivered 62.35 lakh hemodialysis sessions benefiting 4.53 lakh patients. National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) screened 2.61 crore individuals.

• National Health Mission (NHM): Launched in 2013, integrates NRHM and NUHM, focusing on vulnerable populations. Key initiatives include RMNCH+A, disease control programs (TB, malaria), and non-communicable disease prevention.

GBS

• Context: Pune, Maharashtra, has reported a surge in suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, reaching 110.
• Significance: One death, possibly linked to GBS, has been reported in Solapur, highlighting the severity of the condition.
• What is GBS?: A rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves.
• Causes: Often triggered by infections, including respiratory, gastrointestinal infections, and viruses like Campylobacter jejuni, influenza, and Zika.
• Symptoms: Starts with tingling and weakness in the extremities (feet and legs), which can spread, potentially leading to paralysis, breathing difficulties, and changes in heart rate/blood pressure in severe cases.
• Diagnosis: Based on symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and confirmed through tests like nerve conduction studies and cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
• Treatment: Supportive care, and immunotherapy options like intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasmapheresis to reduce severity and duration.
• Recovery: Most people recover, but recovery can take weeks to years, with potential lasting effects.
• Prevention: Infection control, including good hygiene, safe food handling, and vaccination.

Wetland Cities: Indore & Udaipur

• Indore and Udaipur are the first Indian cities to be recognized as Wetland Accredited Cities under the Ramsar Convention.
• This accreditation signifies international recognition for their commitment to wetland conservation and sustainable management.
• The Ramsar Convention currently protects 85 Indian wetlands, within a global network of 172 member countries.
• Wetland Accredited Cities demonstrate a dedication to protecting wetlands and ensuring they provide vital ecological and community services.
• Accreditation is based on meeting six international criteria, emphasizing wetland ecosystem conservation and service provision.
• This recognition acknowledges the cities’ success in balancing urban development with ecological preservation.
• The highest number of accredited cities are in China (22) and France (9).
• Globally, there are over 2,400 Ramsar Sites, covering more than 2.5 million square kilometers.
• Bhoj Wetland (Indore), a Ramsar site since 2002, comprises the Upper Lake and Lower Lake.
• The Upper Lake borders Van Vihar National Park, supporting avifauna like Coot, Red-Crested Pochard, Sarus Crane, Black-necked Stork, and Pallas’s Fish Eagle.
• Van Vihar National Park provides refuge for mammals like Chital, Wild Boar, Nilgai, and Sambar.

WASP-127b

• Extreme Wind Speeds: Astronomers have detected wind speeds up to 33,000 km/h on WASP-127b.

  • Why: This is exceptionally fast, around six times the planet’s rotation speed, representing the fastest winds observed on any planet.

• Planet Type: WASP-127b is a “hot Jupiter”, a gas giant exoplanet.

  • Why: This classification helps understand its size, mass, and composition.

• Size and Density: WASP-127b is about 30% larger than Jupiter but only 16% of its mass.

  • Why: This makes it a “puffy” planet with a low density.

• Orbit: The exoplanet has a close orbit around its star, with an orbital period of just 4 days.

  • Why: This proximity results in extreme temperature differences between its day and night sides.

• Atmosphere: The atmosphere consists of hydrogen, helium, carbon monoxide, and water.

  • Why: Identifying the atmosphere composition and the presence of components like water are key for planetary studies.

• Temperature Differences: The day side reaches 1,127°C, while the night side is still heated by stellar radiation.

  • Why: Extreme temperature swings are key in understanding atmospheric dynamics and how the planet’s atmosphere interacts with its star.

PMFBY: Crop Insurance

• Expansion of Coverage: The Union government will expand PMFBY to include crop damage caused by animals as a ground for payouts, responding to a long-standing farmer demand.

• Scheme Overview: Launched on February 18, 2016, PMFBY is a crop insurance scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture aimed at providing financial protection to farmers against crop loss due to natural disasters, pests, and diseases.

• Objectives: The scheme aims to provide financial support to farmers, stabilize their income, encourage modern agricultural practices, promote crop diversification, enhance creditworthiness, and protect farmers from production risks.

• Eligibility: All farmers growing notified crops in notified areas, including sharecroppers and tenant farmers, are eligible. Loanee farmers (those with Seasonal Agricultural Operations loans) are compulsorily covered, while the scheme is optional for non-loanee farmers.

• Affordable Premiums: Farmers pay a maximum premium of 2% for Kharif crops, 1.5% for Rabi crops, and 5% for annual commercial or horticultural crops, with the government subsidizing the remaining premium.

• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers natural disasters (droughts, floods), pests, and diseases, including post-harvest losses due to local risks like hailstorms and landslides.

• Timely Compensation: Aims to process claims within two months of harvest to ensure quick compensation.

• Technology-Driven: Uses technologies like satellite imaging, drones, and mobile apps for accurate crop loss estimation and claim settlements. Initiatives include the National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP), YES-TECH (Yield Estimation System Based on Technology), and CROPIC (Collection of Real-time photos and Observations of Crops).

CoO 2.0

• Enhanced eCoO 2.0 System Launched: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has launched an upgraded version of the electronic Certificate of Origin system.
• Simplified Certification: Aims to streamline the certification process for exporters and improve trade efficiency.
• Multi-User Access: Exporters can now authorize multiple users under one Importer Exporter Code (IEC), increasing flexibility.
• Aadhaar e-Signing: The system supports Aadhaar-based e-signing, offering an alternative to digital signature tokens.
• Integrated Dashboard: Provides exporters with easy access to eCoO services, Free Trade Agreement (FTA) information, and trade events.
• In-Lieu Certificate of Origin: Allows exporters to easily request corrections to previously issued certificates online.
• High Processing Volume: The platform handles over 7,000 eCoOs daily, including both preferential and non-preferential certificates.
• Extensive Network: Connects 125 issuing agencies, encompassing 110 national and regional chambers of commerce & industry.
• Single Access Point: Serves as a unified platform for exporters dealing with all FTAs/PTAs and relevant agencies.
• Developed by DGFT: The platform was designed and developed by DGFT and RMTR Division, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Government Authority Issuance: Certificates of Origin are issued by designated government authorities in the exporting country.
• Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Comprehensive trade agreements between countries, designed to reduce or eliminate trade barriers.

Surajpur Wetland

• Project for Protection & Conservation: The Greater Noida authority has initiated a project to protect and conserve the Surajpur wetland.

• Location: Near Surajpur Village, Dadri Tehsil, Gautam Buddh Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh, under Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority.

• Urban Wetland: An important example of an urban wetland within the Yamuna River basin.

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• Green Lung: Serves as a “green lung” for Greater Noida. Total area is 308 ha out of which 60 ha constitutes the water body

• Important Bird Area (IBA): Recognized by BirdLife International as an IBA, signifying its importance for bird conservation.

• Breeding & Wintering Ground: Supports breeding waterfowl (Spot-billed Duck, Lesser-whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Comb Duck) and wintering waterfowl (Red-crested Pochard, Ferruginous Pochard, Bar-headed Goose, Greylag Goose, Common Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall).

• Mammal Habitat: Supports six mammal species, including Nilgai, Indian Grey Mongoose, Indian Hare, Golden Jackal, and Five-striped Squirrel.

• Threat: The wetland is under threat from polluted wastewater discharge.

• Location Coordinates: Located at Latitude 28°31.425’N and Longitude 77°29.714’E

• BirdLife International: BirdLife International is a global partnership focused on bird and biodiversity conservation.

Namdapha: Tiger Haven

• Elephant Sighting: An elephant was camera-trapped in Namdapha Tiger Reserve after 12 years, raising hopes for conservation efforts.

• Location: Changlang District, Arunachal Pradesh; bordering Myanmar; near Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary; between Dapha Bum ridge (Mishmi Hills) and Patkai Ranges.

• Vegetation: Diverse, including Northern Tropical Evergreen, North Indian Tropical Moist Deciduous, East Himalayan Moist Temperate, and Moist Alpine Scrub Forests.

• River: The Namdapha river flows through the reserve.

• Biodiversity Hotspot: Located at the junction of the Indian Sub-continent and Indo-China Biogeographic Regions.

• Fauna: Home to elephants, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Sun Bear, Hoolock Gibbon (India’s only ape), Slow Loris, and more.

• Flora: Includes unique species like Pinus Merkusi and Abies Delavavi. The reserve hosts the rare Blue Vanda orchid and medicinal plants such as Mishimi Teeta.

Nagoba Jatara Festival

• Nagoba Jatara Start: The eight-day annual pilgrimage of the Mesram clan Adivasi Gonds is set to begin in Keslapur village, Indervelli mandal, Adilabad district, Telangana.

• What it is: It is the second largest tribal festival in India after Sammakka Saralamma Jatara.

• Duration and Participants: The festival lasts 10 days and is celebrated by the Mesram clan of Gond tribes. Participants include tribal people from multiple states: Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh.

• Chief Deity: The primary deity worshipped is ‘Nagoba’ (Sri Shek – Cobra).

• Key Ritual: A significant ritual involves clan elders fetching holy water from the Godavari River before the Jatara.

• ‘Bheting’ Ceremony: This ceremony introduces new brides into the clan. The new brides, wearing white saris, are led by elder women to worship Nagoba, thus gaining full clan membership.

• Gusadi Dance: The Gusadi Dance performed by Gond tribe dancers is a major attraction.

• Who are Gonds: The Gonds are the largest Adivasi community in India.

• Largest tribe in Telangana: The Lambada tribe is the largest in Telangana, speaking Banjara.

India Tax: Reform & Hurdles

• Current Tax System Retards Growth: The existing tax framework, particularly GST, hinders business development, suppresses consumption, and damages India’s investment reputation.

• Retrospective Taxation: Undermines investor confidence due to unpredictable tax rules and costly penalties.

• Revenue Maximization Focus: Leads to arbitrary tax demands, frustrating businesses and creating inefficiencies.

• Input Tax Credit Issues: Denial of input tax credits, especially in real estate, increases consumer prices and distorts market competition. SC ruled that real estate sector can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on construction costs for commercial buildings used for renting or leasing purposes that was earlier not allowed in Chief Commissioner of Central Goods and Service Tax & Ors. Vs Safari Retreats Case, 2024.

• Complex Tax Structure: Multiple tax rates, complicated notifications, exemptions, and circulars favor tax professionals over businesses.

• Low Direct Tax Collection: Corporations use transfer pricing and underreporting to minimize tax liabilities, forcing reliance on indirect taxes.

• Imports Dependency: Burdensome taxes make domestic manufacturing less competitive, increasing reliance on imports.

• Currency Depreciation: Higher business costs and reduced competitiveness weaken the rupee and escalate trade deficits.

• Investment Discouragement: Tax system complexity and retrospective amendments create uncertainty for investors.

• Lower Revenue Collection: Complexities lead to underreporting/evasion, forcing higher taxes to meet fiscal targets, creating a cycle of stagnation.

• Streamline GST: Simplify and unify tax rates for ease of doing business.

• Tax Certainty: Establish clear and consistent rules, ending retrospective taxation.

• Optimize Revenue Collection: Use digital platforms and AI to improve tax collection and prevent evasion.

• Focus on Economic Growth: Prioritize long-term growth over immediate revenue maximization.

• Improve Corporate Tax Collection: Conduct audits, offer incentives for early disclosure to ensure corporations pay taxes on time

YASASVI Scheme

• Republic Day 2025 Address: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment addressed student beneficiaries of the PM YASASVI Scheme on Republic Day 2025, highlighting the scheme’s importance.

• Scheme Objective: Provides financial assistance for quality education to students from marginalized backgrounds (OBC, EBC, and DNT).

• Eligibility Criteria: Open to students from OBC, EBC, and DNT categories with an annual family income of up to Rs 2.5 lakh.

• Umbrella Scheme: PM YASASVI encompasses various sub-schemes catering to different educational levels.

• Pre-Matric Scholarship: Offers Rs. 4,000 annually to families with income below Rs. 2.5 lakh to support students before matriculation.

• Post-Matric Scholarship: Provides financial aid ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 20,000 based on the course category, supporting students after matriculation.

• College Education Support: Full financial support, including tuition, living expenses, and educational materials, is provided to top college students.

• Hostel Facilities: Accommodation provided near government schools and institutions for eligible students.

The Republic Day address highlights the government’s commitment to supporting marginalized students through the PM YASASVI scheme, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities for advancement.

Etikoppaka Toys

• Recognition at Republic Day Parade: Etikoppaka toys, Andhra Pradesh’s eco-friendly wooden toys, received accolades at the Republic Day parade.

• 400-Year-Old Tradition: These toys, also known as Etikoppaka Bommalu, are rooted in a 400-year-old craft tradition.

• Origin in Andhra Pradesh: They originate from Etikoppaka village, Andhra Pradesh.

• Natural Materials: Made using ‘ankudu’ wood and colored with natural dyes from seeds, bark, roots, and leaves.

• Safe for Children: The toys have no sharp edges, making them safe for children.

• Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: Received a GI tag in 2017, signifying their authenticity and cultural importance. This tag protects the unique origin and qualities of the product.

• International Recognition: The toys have gained international recognition for their vibrant colors and timeless designs.

• GI Tag Definition: A GI tag is used on products with a specific geographical origin and qualities/reputation linked to that origin. In India, it’s governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Darjeeling tea was the first product to receive a GI tag in India (2004-05).

• Lacquer Properties: Lacquer used in the toys is fast drying, waterproof, and transparent.

UPS

• Assured Pension for Government Employees: The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) guarantees a pension equivalent to 50% of the average basic pay drawn in the last 12 months before retirement, a significant shift from the National Pension System (NPS). This is a restoration of a benefit previously available.

• Option for NPS Participants: Current and future central government employees under the NPS have the choice to switch to UPS. This gives employees a more secure financial future.

• Irreversible Decision: The decision to switch to UPS is final, creating a clear choice for employees and impacting long-term planning.

• Minimum Pension & Family Benefits: UPS includes a minimum pension of Rs. 10,000 per month after 10 years of service and family pension (60% of the pension upon the employee’s death), providing additional financial safety nets.

• Inflation Protection and Retirement Benefits: Dearness relief will ensure the pension is adjusted for inflation. A lump sum payout and gratuity are also included, aiding with retirement.

• Voluntary Retirement Provisions: Employees opting for voluntary retirement after 25 years of service are also eligible for the pension benefits. This extends financial security to more employees.

• Effective Date: The scheme will be effective from April 1, 2025.

Baltic

• Sweden Seizes Ship: A ship is suspected of damaging a fibre-optic cable under the Baltic Sea linking Sweden and Latvia. This is important as it highlights concerns about infrastructure security in the region.

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• Baltic Sea Region: Located in Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea is bordered by Sweden, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Germany, Denmark, and Russia, making it strategically important.

• Young Sea: Formed 10,000-15,000 years ago, the Baltic Sea’s relatively recent formation impacts its unique characteristics, like being brackish.

• Brackish Water: The Baltic Sea is the world’s largest brackish inland water body due to freshwater inflow and shallowness which affects its ecosystem.

• Gulfs: The Baltic Sea features three major gulfs: Bothnia, Finland and Riga, influencing maritime activities and regional geography.

• Islands: Over 20 islands and archipelagos are present, with Gotland being the largest, creating diverse marine habitats and affecting shipping routes.

Rat-Hole

• Why in News: Assam’s Dima Hasao rat-hole mining tragedy (9 miners trapped) highlights unregulated mining dangers despite bans.

• What is Rat-Hole Mining: Primitive, labor-intensive, dangerous coal mining method with small tunnels (3-4 ft deep, 2-3 ft wide). Common in Northeast India.

• Methods:

  • Side-Cutting: Tunnels into hill slopes.
  • Box-Cutting: Vertical pit followed by horizontal “rat holes”.

• Reasons for Rat-Hole Mining:

  • Poverty and limited livelihood options.
  • Land ownership ambiguities and weak regulation.
  • Coal demand (legal and illegal).

• Challenges:

  • Safety Hazards: Tunnel collapses, suffocation, accidents (e.g., Wokha mine explosion, Ksan mine flooding).
  • Environmental Impact: Deforestation, soil erosion, water contamination (Acid Mine Drainage).
  • Social Issues: Child labor (70,000 estimated), worker exploitation, displacement.

• Regulation:

  • Illegal in India.
  • NGT ban (2014) upheld by Supreme Court (2019) under MMDR Act, 1957.
  • Nagaland Coal Policy (2006): SPDLs with strict conditions.
  • Article 371A (Nagaland) and Sixth Schedule (ADCs) create legal complexities.

• International Context: No direct international law, but emphasis on sustainable mining and worker safety.

• Biomining:

  • Extracts metals using microorganisms (bacteria, archaea, fungi, plants).
  • Eco-friendly method for ore extraction and site remediation.
  • Processes: Bioleaching and Biooxidation.
  • Metals extracted: copper, uranium, nickel, gold.
  • Advantages: Sustainable, energy-efficient, reduced water usage.
  • Challenges: Slower extraction, limited scope, technical complexities.

SCI Foundation Day

• Foundation Day: The Supreme Court of India was inaugurated on January 28, 1950, following its establishment on January 26, 1950, under Article 124 of the Constitution.
• Historical Context: Operations began in the old Parliament House, moving to the current building in 1958, inaugurated by President Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
• Initial vs. Current Strength: Originally conceived with a CJI and 7 judges, the SC now comprises a CJI and 33 judges (as of 2024).
• Appointment & Eligibility: Judges are appointed by the President and retire at 65. Eligibility criteria include Indian citizenship and experience as a High Court judge, advocate, or distinguished jurist.
• “Lady Justice” Statue: A new statue was unveiled in 2024, depicting Lady Justice in a saree, without a blindfold, holding scales and the Indian Constitution.
  • Significance: The open eyes signify the law sees everyone equally, and the Constitution’s presence emphasizes its supremacy over a sword.
• New Flag & Insignia: Unveiled in 2024 to mark the SC’s 75th year.
  • Elements: Features the Ashok Chakra, the SC building, and the Book of Constitution.
  • Motto: Inscribed with “Yato Dharmastato Jayah,” meaning “Where there is Dharma, there is victory.”

Namdapha: A Sanctuary

• Elephant Reappearance: An elephant was camera-trapped after 12 years, sparking conservation hope. This highlights potential success in habitat restoration and improved protection efforts.

• Location and Significance: Situated in Arunachal Pradesh, near the India-Myanmar-China tri-junction, within the Eastern Himalayas and Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. This strategic location underscores its importance for regional biodiversity.

• Size and Ecosystem Diversity: Third-largest national park in India (1,985 sq km) with an altitude range of 200-4,571 meters, supporting diverse ecosystems. The size and varied topography lead to high biodiversity.

• Unique Fauna: The only park globally with four big cat species (tiger, leopard, snow leopard, clouded leopard). This fact alone emphasizes Namdapha’s significance for big cat conservation. Includes other key species such as the critically endangered Namdapha flying squirrel.

• Flora and Biodiversity: Rich flora with orchids, ferns, bamboos, and medicinal plants, contributing to overall biodiversity.

• Tiger Reserve: Designated a tiger reserve in 1983. Challenges exist in tiger population estimation due to difficult terrain.

• Tribal Communities: Inhabited by indigenous tribes (Lisu, Singpho, Tangsa) who are now engaged in conservation, indicating a shift toward sustainable practices.

FCRA & NGOs

• MHA Warning: NGOs using foreign funds without a valid FCRA license will face penalties.
• FCRA Purpose: Regulates foreign contributions to individuals, associations, and organizations, ensuring funds are used legitimately and don’t compromise national interest. Enacted in 1976, amended in 2010 and 2020.
• FCRA Validity: Registration is valid for five years; renewal application required six months before expiry.
• 2020 Amendment: Suspension: MHA can suspend FCRA registration for up to 360 days for violations.
• 2020 Amendment: Aadhaar: Mandatory Aadhaar identification for key NGO personnel.
• 2020 Amendment: Public Servants: Prohibits public servants from receiving foreign contributions.
• 2020 Amendment: Administrative Expenses: Limits administrative expenses to 20% of foreign funds (previously 50%).
• 2020 Amendment: Sub-Granting: Prohibits NGOs from sub-granting foreign funds to other entities.
• 2020 Amendment: Designated Account: Requires a designated FCRA account at a specific SBI branch in New Delhi.
• Prohibited Activities: Restrictions on fictitious entities, religious conversions, communal tension, disharmony, or seditious activities.
• Prohibited Recipients: Bans foreign funds for candidates, journalists, media, judges, government servants, politicians, and political organizations.

DEEPSEEK: Deep Learning

• DeepSeek’s AI Models Challenge US Dominance: Chinese startup DeepSeek has launched AI models (DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1) claimed to rival or surpass leading US models from companies like OpenAI and Meta. This disrupts the existing tech world order.

• Cost-Effectiveness Advantage: DeepSeek’s models offer comparable performance at a significantly lower cost. DeepSeek-V3 was trained on just $5 million, unlike the hundreds of millions spent by US tech giants.

• Open-Source Nature: DeepSeek models are open-sourced with open weights. This allows anyone to build upon them, potentially fostering broader innovation.

• Mixture-of-Experts (MOE) Architecture: DeepSeek-V3 utilizes MOE, a specialized architecture where multiple smaller models collaborate, which can enhance efficiency.

• Overcoming US Sanctions: DeepSeek developed these AI models despite US sanctions restricting China’s access to advanced Nvidia chips, showcasing resilience and innovation.

• Shift in AI Narrative: DeepSeek’s success reverses the previous narrative of Chinese AI lagging behind US capabilities, as initial Chinese AI products disappointed in comparison.

Wetland City Accreditation

• Indore & Udaipur Recognized: Indore and Udaipur are the first Indian cities to achieve “Wetland Accredited City” status.
• Voluntary Accreditation: This is a voluntary scheme offering international recognition for cities valuing wetlands.
• Ramsar Convention COP12: The scheme was approved at the Ramsar Convention COP12 in 2015.
• Promoting Conservation: Aims to promote the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands.
• Socio-Economic Benefits: Stresses sustainable socio-economic benefits for local populations.
• 6-Year Validity: Accreditation lasts for 6 years, requiring renewal based on continued adherence to criteria.
• Recognizing Exceptional Steps: Acknowledges cities that have significantly safeguarded urban wetlands.
• Importance of Urban Wetlands: Highlights the crucial role of wetlands in urban/peri-urban environments.
• 6 International Criteria: Cities must meet specific standards outlined in the Ramsar Convention’s Operational Guidance for WCA to gain accreditation.
• Global Recognition: Since Ramsar COP13, 74 cities across 17 countries have achieved this recognition.
• Wetland Definition: Wetlands are land areas seasonally or permanently flooded with water.
• International Agreement: The Ramsar Convention is an international agreement for wetland preservation.

Fentanyl: Key Facts

• Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid: Roughly 100 times stronger than morphine and 50 times stronger than heroin as a pain reliever. This extreme potency makes it particularly dangerous.

• Approved for medical use: The FDA has approved fentanyl as an analgesic (pain reliever) and anesthetic. However, its misuse is a major concern.

• Overdose risks: Fentanyl overdoses can cause severe symptoms including stupor, changes in pupil size, clammy skin, blue skin (cyanosis), coma, respiratory failure and death. This is due to its effect on the brain’s respiratory control center.

• Opioid Class: Fentanyl belongs to the opioid class of drugs, which are derived from or mimic substances found in opium poppies.

• Mechanism of Action: Opioids activate opioid receptors, blocking pain signals and causing euphoria, making them highly addictive.

• Overdose Identification: An opioid overdose can be identified by pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness, and breathing difficulties.

• Potential Trade Implications: The US government was discussing a potential punitive duty on Chinese imports due to fentanyl being allegedly trafficked from China to the US through Mexico and Canada.

• Common side effects: Stomach pain, feeling dizzy, headaches.

Core Religious Practice

• Loudspeakers Not Essential: The Bombay High Court ruled that using loudspeakers is not an essential religious practice (ERP) protected by the Constitution.

• ERP Defined: ERP refers to practices integral to a religion’s doctrine, protected under Article 25 of the Constitution. The judiciary determines what constitutes an ERP based on religious tenets.

• Santhara/Sallekhana: The Rajasthan High Court initially ruled Santhara (a Jain practice of fasting to death) as non-essential, but the Supreme Court stayed the order.

• Triple Talaq: The Supreme Court invalidated instant triple talaq, stating it was not an essential Islamic practice and violated women’s rights.

• Bombay HC Loudspeaker Ruling: In Dr Mahesh Vijay Bedekar v Maharashtra (2016), the Bombay HC enforced noise pollution rules, clarifying loudspeakers are not essential to religion. Use is restricted between 10 pm and 6 am, and in silence zones, with limited exceptions.

• Noise as Pollution: Noise is considered an “air pollutant” under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, with mandated noise level limits.

Iron Age Urbanization

• Tamil Nadu Iron Use Antiquity: Recent report suggests iron use in Tamil Nadu dates back to the 4th millennium BCE, pushing back the established Iron Age timeline in India.

• Iron Age Definition: A period following the Bronze Age, characterized by the widespread use of iron for tools and weapons.

• Iron Age Timeline Discrepancies: The generally accepted Iron Age in India emerged between 1500-2000 BCE, but new evidence challenges this.

• Lack of Iron in Rigveda: The Rigveda shows no knowledge of iron.

• Iron Mentions in Later Texts: Early Buddhist literature and Kautilya’s Arthashastra reference iron smithing.

• Key Excavation Sites & Evidence:

  • Raja Nal Ka Tila: Iron tools and slag (1400–800 BCE).
  • Malhar: Iron tools, furnaces, and slag, indicating a metallurgy center.

• Cultural Associations with Iron: Black-and-Red Ware (BRW), Painted Grey Ware (PGW), and Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) cultures are linked to the Iron Age.

• Urbanization Definition: Shift from agriculture to industries/services/trade, reliant on surplus production, social stratification, and ruling classes.

• Iron’s Role in 2nd Urbanization: Iron technology facilitated the 2nd Urbanization in the Ganga Valley (6th century BCE) by:

  • Clearing forests for agriculture.
  • Boosting agricultural productivity with iron plows.
  • Creating agricultural surpluses.

• Impact of Iron on Urbanization:

  • Supported population growth.
  • Led to the development of settlements and 16 Mahajanapadas.
  • Enabled social stratification and state formation.
  • Facilitated trade and craft specialization.

• Conclusion: Iron technology significantly contributed to urbanization in ancient India, especially in the Ganga Valley, fostering population growth, social hierarchies, and state formation during the second urbanization phase.

WASP-127b: A Giant Planet

• Supersonic Winds Discovered: Scientists have detected extremely fast winds, reaching speeds of 33,000 km/hour, on the exoplanet WASP-127b. This makes them the fastest winds of their kind observed on any planet.

• Hot Jupiter: WASP-127b is classified as a “hot Jupiter,” a gas giant exoplanet orbiting very close to its host star.

• Proximity to Star: It orbits its star every four days at approximately 5% of the Earth-Sun distance, resulting in intense stellar radiation and high atmospheric temperatures.

• Tidally Locked: Similar to our moon’s relationship with Earth, one side of WASP-127b always faces its star (day side), while the other always faces away (night side).

• Puffy Planet: WASP-127b is significantly larger than Jupiter in diameter (30% larger) but has only about 16% of Jupiter’s mass, classifying it as a “puffy” planet.

• Atmospheric Composition: Primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, its atmosphere also contains traces of carbon monoxide and water.

• No Solid Surface: As a gas giant, WASP-127b lacks a solid surface; the atmosphere transitions into denser, highly pressurized gas at greater depths.

• Discovered in 2016: WASP-127b was discovered in 2016, contributing to the ongoing exploration and characterization of exoplanets.

• WASP Designation: Planets named “WASP” are identified by the SuperWASP project, a ground-based effort to discover exoplanets.

India-Indonesia Synergy

• Why in News: The President of Indonesia was the Chief Guest at India’s 76th Republic Day, marking 75 years of diplomatic relations, accompanied by the signing of MoUs across health, digital infrastructure, and defense.
• Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: Reaffirmed commitment to the partnership elevated in 2018.
• Defense Cooperation: Enhanced ties through joint exercises (Garuda Shakti, Samudra Shakti), Bilateral Maritime Dialogue and Cyber Security Dialogue.
• Trade Cooperation: Aims to increase bilateral trade beyond USD 38.8 billion (2022-23), resolve barriers, and expedite AITIGA review. Focus on local currency settlement.
• Energy and Health Security: Collaboration on biofuels, critical mineral exploration (nickel, bauxite), MoUs on Health Cooperation and traditional medicine.
• Technological Cooperation: India to share expertise in Digital Public Infrastructure, Quantum Communication, and High-Performance Computing.
• Cultural Cooperation: India to assist in Prambanan Temple restoration; reaffirmed “Kashi Cultural Pathway” principles for heritage restoration.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Emphasis on ASEAN centrality, cooperation on ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific, India-Indonesia-Australia Trilateral, IPOI, BRICS, and IORA.
• Strategic Importance of Indonesia: Critical location in Indo-Pacific (Strait of Malacca), key supplier of resources, potential BrahMos missile deal strengthens defense ties, and significant global influence within ASEAN.
• Evolving Ties: From early support for Indonesian independence and non-alignment to strained relations in the 1960s, followed by rebuilding ties and strengthening through India’s “Look East” and “Act East” policies.

Fiscal Health Score

• What it is: The Fiscal Health Index (FHI) is a new report launched by NITI Aayog, assessing the fiscal health of Indian states.

• Purpose: To evaluate the fiscal status of states and inform policy reforms for sustainable economic growth.

• Methodology: The FHI ranks 18 major states based on a composite index using five sub-indices: Quality of Expenditure, Revenue Mobilization, Fiscal Prudence, Debt Index, and Debt Sustainability.

• Key Findings:

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  • Odisha tops the ranking with a score of 67.8.
  • Chhattisgarh and Goa follow Odisha.
  • Goa, Telangana, and Odisha lead in revenue mobilization and fiscal prudence.
  • Punjab is the lowest-ranked state, with Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Kerala, and Haryana also performing poorly.

• Significance: The FHI provides insights into states’ financial management, identifies strengths and weaknesses, and helps policymakers address fiscal imbalances for improved economic stability.

Press Freedom: India’s Benchmarks

• Romesh Thapar v. State of Madras (1950): SC struck down the Madras Maintenance of Public Order Act, protecting free speech under Article 19(1)(a). Restrictions must be narrowly defined and linked to “security of the state,” preventing arbitrary state censorship.

• Brij Bhushan v. State of Delhi (1950): SC invalidated prior censorship of a newspaper (Organiser magazine), reinforcing that prior restraint on publication is unconstitutional and restrictions should only be applicable if there is incitement to violence.

• Sakal Papers Ltd vs Union of India (1961): SC struck down the Newspaper (Price and Page) Act, protecting freedom of speech under Article 19(1)(a). Restrictions on newspaper pricing and advertisement space were deemed unreasonable interference.

• Bennett Coleman & Co. v. Union of India (1973): SC invalidated the Newsprint Control Order, protecting freedom of speech under Article 19(1)(a). Restrictions on the number of pages a newspaper could publish were unreasonable.

• Indian Express Newspapers v. Union of India (1985): SC ruled that excessive taxation on newspapers is an attempt to curtail free expression. Any restrictions must be justified under Article 19(2).

• Shreya Singhal vs Union of India (2015): SC struck down Section 66A of the IT Act, as it was vague and overly broad, and violated the right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a).

Black Hole: LID 568

• Discovery of a Low-Mass Black Hole: Astronomers, using JWST and Chandra, discovered LID 568, a low-mass supermassive black hole.
• Early Universe Location: LID 568 existed just 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang, making it an ancient black hole.
• Super-Eddington Accretion: This black hole is feeding at 40 times the Eddington limit, exceeding the theoretical maximum accretion rate without radiation pressure halting it.
• Galaxy Impact: The black hole’s powerful outflows are inhibiting star formation in its host galaxy.
• Challenges Current Theories: LID 568’s rapid growth rate challenges existing models of supermassive black hole formation, which often require sustained accretion.
• Insights into Early Universe: The discovery suggests that short, intense bursts of matter feeding could explain the formation of large black holes in the early universe.
• Future Research Opportunities: It opens doors for studying how black holes accrete matter and how they affect galaxy development.

Udanti Sitanadi

• Gunfight with Maoists: At least 12 suspected Maoists were killed in a recent gunfight with security forces within the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. This highlights ongoing security concerns and Naxal activity in the region, impacting conservation efforts and local communities.

• Location and Connectivity: The reserve is strategically located in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband district and connects with the Kanker and North Kondagaon forest divisions. This creates a crucial corridor to the Indravati Tiger Reserve, aiding wildlife movement and genetic exchange.

• Establishment and Naming: The reserve was formed by merging the Sitanadi and Udanti wildlife sanctuaries, named after the rivers Udanti and Sitanadi.

• Area: The total area of the tiger reserve is 1872 sq.km.

• Vegetation: The reserve features mixed vegetation, including dry deciduous forests and tropical/sub-tropical vegetation, with Sal forests also present. This diverse habitat supports a wide range of flora and fauna.

• Fauna: It is home to tigers, Chital, Wild Buffaloes, Barking Deer, and other animals. Critically, it is a vital refuge for the endangered Wild Buffalo, along with the Indravati Tiger Reserve. This underscores its importance for biodiversity conservation.

• Other Tiger Reserves in Chhattisgarh: Besides Udanti Sitanadi, Chhattisgarh has three other tiger reserves: Achanakmar, Indravati, and Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla.

• India’s Tiger Population: India has the largest tiger population globally, with 3,167 tigers recorded in the 2022 census. This emphasizes India’s role in global tiger conservation.

Rule by Few

• Oligarchy Concerns: A US President warned against the growing influence of an oligarchy, where a small group of billionaires are increasingly dictating public policy in the US.
• Definition of Oligarchy: A government controlled by a small, powerful group, with power potentially distributed unfairly, unlike a democracy where decision-making isn’t confined to a select few.
• Distinction from Other Governments: The content highlights differences between oligarchy and other systems like monarchy (ruled by a hereditary leader), theocracy (ruled by religious figures), democracy/republic (ruled by elected representatives), anarchy (absence of rule), and dictatorship (ruled by a single, absolute leader).
• Why it Matters: The rise of an oligarchy raises concerns about fair representation, equitable power distribution, and the potential for public policy to serve the interests of a privileged few rather than the broader population. It’s important to understand different forms of government to safeguard democratic principles and prevent undue influence.

India’s Fiscal Path

• Reduced Fiscal Deficit: India has significantly reduced its fiscal deficit from 9.2% of GDP in FY 2020-21 to an estimated 5.6% in FY 2023-24, targeting 4.9% for FY 2024-25.
• FRBM Act, 2003: Progress driven by targeted spending and enhanced revenue collection under the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003.
• Fiscal Consolidation Definition: Prudent management of government finances focused on balancing revenue and expenditure to minimize deficits and control debt for long-term economic stability.
• Significance: Macro-economic stability, reduced debt burden, improved investor confidence, and efficient resource utilization.
• Impact on Growth: Controls inflation by lowering government borrowing, stabilizes currency exchange rates, and ensures stable economic growth.
• Increased Capex: Capital expenditure increased from 1.6% of GDP in FY 2014-15 to 3.2% in FY 2023-24.
• Revenue Mobilization: Tax receipts rose from 10% of GDP in FY 2014-15 to 11.8% in FY 2023-24, due to digitization of the tax system.
• PLI Scheme: Launched the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost domestic manufacturing.
• Challenges:
  • Compromising welfare spending due to focus on deficit reduction.
  • Geopolitical tensions impacting trade and fiscal health.
  • Volatile capital flows due to rising interest rates in developed economies.
  • Rising state deficits exceeding recommended levels.
  • Sustaining capital expenditure at 3.2% of GDP.
• Way Forward:
  • Tax reforms and mobilization by improving the tax base.
  • Balancing investment with deficit control.
  • Monetary and fiscal coordination between the RBI and the government.

VIKAS: India’s Rocket Engine

• ISRO’s Vikas Engine Restart Demonstration: ISRO successfully demonstrated restarting its Vikas liquid engine at a test facility.

  • Why: This signifies progress toward reusable launch vehicle technology.

• Vikas Engine’s Role: The Vikas engine is a liquid-fuel rocket engine developed by ISRO.

  • Why: It’s a crucial component of India’s space launch vehicle program.

• Applications in Launch Vehicles: Used in multiple ISRO launch vehicles, including PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3.

  • Why: Demonstrates its versatility and importance.

• Specific Vehicle Stages: Powers the second stage of PSLV, boosters and second stage of GSLV Mark I and II, and the core stage of LVM3.

  • Why: Highlights specific usage within various launch configurations.

• Fuel and Oxidizer: Utilizes Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) as fuel and Nitrogen Tetroxide (N2O4) as the oxidizer.

  • Why: Provides details of the engine’s operational components.

Himachal Statehood Day

• Statehood Day: Celebrated annually on January 25th.

• Significance: Commemorates Himachal Pradesh becoming the 18th state of the Indian Union on January 25, 1971.

• Historical Progression:

  • April 15, 1948: Established as a Chief Commissioner’s province.
  • January 26, 1950: Became a Part C state upon implementation of the Indian Constitution.
  • November 1, 1956: Became a Union Territory following the State Reorganisation Commission.
  • November 1, 1966: Kangra and other hill areas of Punjab merged with HP, remaining a Union Territory.
  • December 18, 1970: State of Himachal Pradesh Act passed by Parliament.

• Prime Minister’s Greetings: The Prime Minister of India conveys greetings to the people of Himachal Pradesh on Statehood Day.

BOCW Funds: Wasted Potential

• Why in News: An RTI query revealed that states have failed to utilize ₹70,744 crore collected under the Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act, 1996.

• BOCW Act, 1996 Overview: Aims to protect construction workers’ rights, welfare, and working conditions, aligning with ILO standards. It mandates welfare measures like health, education, and social security funded by a 1-2% cess on employers.

• Key Concerns:

  • Underutilization: Massive unspent cess amounts indicate a failure to provide intended benefits. States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh have significant unspent balances.
  • Cess Evasion: Employers are allegedly evading cess payments, and the lack of cost transparency in construction projects exacerbates the problem.
  • Poor Enforcement: The Act’s provisions for accommodation, water, and sanitation are poorly enforced, leaving workers vulnerable.
  • Implementation Deficiencies: Most states, excluding Kerala, aren’t fully implementing the Act. Welfare boards are not being reconstituted which could cause funds to be diverted.

• Potential Impact of Code on Social Security (CSS) 2020: The CSS might weaken cess collection and reduce worker entitlements by allowing self-assessment of cess and making benefits like accommodation optional.

• Way Forward:

  • Enhanced Monitoring: Implement independent audits and online platforms to track cess utilization transparently.
  • State Accountability: Hold states responsible for Act implementation and effective fund usage, incentivizing performance.
  • Review CSS 2020: Revise the Code to maintain mandatory worker entitlements and health coverage.
  • Worker Education: Educate workers on their rights under the Act and promote skill development, collaborating with NGOs.

India: Cape Town Pact

• India to Ratify Cape Town Convention (CTC): The Union Cabinet approved a bill to ratify and enforce the CTC, aiming to strengthen India’s aviation framework and align with global standards.

• Purpose of CTC: The CTC allows creditors (lessors, lenders, financiers) to repossess aircraft if an airline defaults on lease payments. This speeds up the process and simplifies it.

• Key Features of CTC: It establishes an international registry for recording interests in aircraft, ensuring transparency and prioritizing creditors’ claims. It also provides clear remedies for creditors, including the ability to deregister and export aircraft.

• Cape Town Protocol’s Role: The Cape Town Protocol, which complements the CTC, sets out specific rules for aircraft financing and leasing.

• India’s Current Status: India signed the CTC in 2008 but hasn’t ratified it yet, so the convention’s provisions aren’t legally binding.

• Why it Matters: India is the world’s third-largest aviation market. Ratifying the CTC will improve the ease of doing business and attract more investment in the aviation sector by providing greater security for aircraft financiers.

Whip

• Why in News: The Vice President of India has raised concerns about party whips in Parliament and if it limits independent judgment of elected representatives.

• What is a Party Whip? A party whip is a directive issued by a political party to its legislators, instructing them on how to vote on specific matters. The whip is also responsible for ensuring attendance and adherence to these directives.

• Objective: Whips aim to maintain party discipline, uniformity in decision-making, and prevent dissent or defections.

• Constitutional Status: The role of the whip isn’t mentioned in the Constitution, Rules of the House, or any parliamentary statute. It operates based on parliamentary conventions.

• Types of Whips:

  • One-Line Whip: Informs members of a vote; abstention is allowed without penalty.
  • Two-Line Whip: Mandates presence during a vote, but doesn’t dictate how to vote.
  • Three-Line Whip: The strictest form; requires attendance and voting in line with the party’s directive.

• Functions:

  • Ensures attendance of party members.
  • Secures support for or against issues.
  • Maintains party discipline.
  • Identifies discontent among MPs.
  • Facilitates internal party coordination and cohesion.

• Violation of Whip: MPs/MLAs who defy a party whip may face expulsion under the Anti-Defection Law, unless two-thirds of the legislators dissent, causing a party split.

Unified Pension

• Operationalization: The Union Finance Ministry has notified the operationalization of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) as an option under the National Pension System (NPS) for central government employees.

• Eligibility: Applicable to central government employees covered under NPS who choose this option. Both current and future employees can opt for UPS or continue with the existing NPS. The decision is final and binding.

• Effective Date: April 1, 2025.

• Guaranteed Payout: UPS provides a guaranteed payout upon superannuation, offering 50% of the average basic pay (plus Dearness Allowance) drawn during the 12 months prior to retirement (with 25 years of service).

• Service Requirement: Employees with 10-25 years of service receive a proportionate pension. A minimum payout of Rs 10,000 per month is assured for employees with 10 or more years of qualifying service.

• Voluntary Retirement: Payout for voluntary retirement after 25 years starts from the date of superannuation.

• Family Pension: In case of death after superannuation, the spouse receives 60% of the payout. Dearness Relief is applicable on both assured payout and family payout.

• Exclusions: Assured payout is not available for removal, dismissal, or resignation.

• Contributory Nature: Employees contribute 10% of their basic salary and Dearness Allowance; the government contributes 18.5%.

• State Governments: State governments can adopt and implement UPS for their employees.

• UPS vs. OPS: Unlike the old pension scheme (OPS), UPS is contributory. Under OPS, employees did not contribute anything.

• Family Pension Amount: The UPS provides for family pension benefits, fixed at 60% of the last salary drawn by the deceased employee.

Ad Hoc Judges

• SC Suggestion: Supreme Court suggests using ad hoc judges to tackle High Court criminal case backlogs and revising the 2021 ruling limiting their appointment to specific cases.

• Constitutional Basis: Article 224A allows High Court Chief Justices, with Presidential approval and the retired judge’s consent, to appoint retired judges temporarily.

• Procedure: The Memorandum of Procedure (MOP) 1998 outlines the appointment process, involving the Chief Justice, Chief Minister, Union Law Minister, Chief Justice of India, Prime Minister, and President. Supreme Court collegium must approve as per the Lok Prahari case (2021).

• Initiation Requirements (Lok Prahari, 2021):

  • Vacancy >20% of sanctioned judge strength.

  • 10% of pending cases are over 5 years old.

  • Regular judicial appointment processes must be initiated first.

• Selection & Tenure: High Court Chief Justices create panels of retired judges. Tenure typically 2-3 years.

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• Role & Pay: Ad-hoc judges hear old cases and can’t take other legal work. They receive pay and allowances equal to a permanent judge.

• Pendency Crisis: Over 51 million cases pending in Indian courts. Delays cost 1.5-2% of GDP.

• Causes of Pendency: Judge shortages, infrastructure gaps, lack of accountability, access to justice barriers.

• Initiatives: National Mission for Justice Delivery, e-Courts Project, Tele-Law Programme, ADR Mechanisms, Fast Track Courts.

• Way Forward: National Court of Appeal for SLPs, Constitutional/Legal divisions within SC, increasing workdays, dedicated authority for judicial infrastructure (NJIAI).

Epicoccum Indicum: Key Facts

• New Fungus Discovered: Researchers at Banaras Hindu University discovered a new phytopathogenic fungal species, Epicoccum indicum.
• Associated Disease: Epicoccum indicum is linked to an emerging leaf spot disease in Chrysopogon zizanioides (vetiver).
• Name Origin: The species name “indicum” refers to India, where it was found.
• Phytopathogenic Fungi Definition: These fungi cause plant diseases, resulting in economic losses in agriculture. They infect various plant parts using diverse colonization strategies.
• Leaf Spot Diseases Explained: Leaf spot diseases are caused by fungal or bacterial infections, creating discolored spots on leaves.
• Human Allergen: Epicoccum species, in general, are known fungal allergens.
• Allergy Symptoms: Exposure symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, skin issues, itchy eyes, and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties.
• Allergy Treatment: While a cure for mold allergy-induced rhinitis is unavailable, medications can alleviate symptoms.

Kalaripayattu

• Controversy at National Games: Kalaripayattu faces a dispute at the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand. The Indian Kalaripayattu Federation accuses the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) of relegating the martial art to the demonstration section.

• Historical Context: In 2023, Kalaripayattu was part of the competition section at the 37th National Games in Goa.

• What is Kalaripayattu: It’s one of the oldest martial arts globally, focusing on mind and body coordination. Originating in Kerala. The name comes from Malayalam words which means ‘practice in the arts of the battlefield’.

• Practices & Techniques: It uses strikes, kicks, weaponry, and healing methods. Practitioners learn physical agility, meditation, and knowledge of vital body points (Marmas).

• Styles: There are three main styles: Northern (Vadakkan), Southern (Thekkan), and Central, each with regional differences.

• Stages of Training: The four stages are: Maippayattu (body conditioning), Kolthari (wooden weapon training), Angathari (metal weapon training), and Verumkai (bare-hand fighting).

• Weaponry: Includes swords, spears, shields, and the Urumi (flexible whip sword).

ATAGS

• Indigenous Development: The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) is indigenously developed by DRDO, showcasing India’s push for self-reliance in defense.
• Republic Day Display: DRDO showcased a model of ATAGS during the 76th Republic Day parade, highlighting its importance.
• Long Range Capability: It has a range of 48 km, making it among the longest-range towed artillery systems globally.
• Precision Strike: ATAGS can program and fire future Long Range Guided Munitions (LRGM) for precision and deep strike capabilities.
• Private Sector Involvement: Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems are production partners, emphasizing public-private partnership in defense manufacturing.
• Mobility and Features: The gun is towed by a 6×6 platform and includes burst firing mode, sophisticated electronics and shoot-and-scoot capability.
• Minimum Range at a High Angle: It can achieve the shortest minimum range at a high angle.
• All-Electric Drive: Equipped with an all-electric drive for maintenance-free and reliable operation.
• Extreme Temperature Operation: Designed to operate in extreme temperatures.
• Towed Artillery Advantages: Towed artillery offers logistical advantages compared to self-propelled systems, being smaller, lighter, and quicker to reposition.
• ATAGS vs. Dhanush: Differences include caliber size, weight, and rate of fire.

IWAI

• New Regional Office in Varanasi: The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has established a new regional office in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This is significant because it expands IWAI’s presence and focus on waterway development in the region.

• Focus on Uttar Pradesh Waterways: The Varanasi office will oversee development on the Ganga, its tributaries, and other National Waterways within Uttar Pradesh. This includes rivers like Betwa, Chambal, Gomti, Tons, Varuna, and parts of Gandak, Ghaghra, Karamnasa, and Yamuna. This is important as it signals a targeted effort to improve navigability and infrastructure on these specific waterways.

• Coordination with State Authority: The Varanasi office will coordinate with the State IWT Authority of Uttar Pradesh. This collaboration is crucial for effective and aligned development of waterways in the state, avoiding duplication of efforts and ensuring synergy.

• IWAI’s Role: IWAI is a statutory body responsible for developing and maintaining inland water transport (IWT) infrastructure on National Waterways. It receives grants from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The new office reinforces this role.

• Existing Regional Offices: IWAI has five other regional offices located in Guwahati, Patna, Kochi, Bhubaneswar and Kolkata. The addition of the Varanasi office reflects the growing importance of inland waterways for transportation and economic development.

• IWAI Headquarters: Headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Iron Age

• Early Iron Age in Tamil Nadu: New research indicates the Iron Age in Tamil Nadu began as early as 3345 BCE, significantly earlier than previously believed.

• Global Significance: This discovery challenges the established understanding of the Iron Age’s origins, which were previously attributed to the Hittite Empire around 1300 BCE. Tamil Nadu is now a potential early innovator.

• Evidence and Methodology: The findings are based on Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) analyses of samples from sites like Sivagalai, Adichanallur, and Mayiladumparai.

• Timeline Revision: The established timeline for the Iron Age in India, believed to be between 1500 and 2000 BCE, is now being pushed back by over a millennium.

• Specific Site Findings:

  • Sivagalai: Evidence includes a paddy sample dating to 1155 BCE and charcoal and potsherds ranging from 2953 BCE to 3345 BCE, indicating the earliest evidence of iron technology globally.
  • Mayiladumparai: Samples dated to 2172 BCE.
  • Kilnamandi: A sarcophagus burial dated to 1692 BCE, representing the earliest of its kind in Tamil Nadu.

• Metallurgical Innovations: The study highlights Tamil Nadu’s innovative role in metallurgy, including the discovery of different iron-smelting furnace types, such as circular furnaces that could reach 1,300°C, demonstrating a mastery of iron smelting technology.

• Regional Context: The study proposes that the Iron Age in South India was contemporaneous with the Copper Age in North India.

Republic Day 2025

• 76th Republic Day Commemoration: India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025.

  • Theme: ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ (Golden India: Heritage and Development).
  • Chief Guest: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
  • Significance: Marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950, establishing India as a republic.

• Tri-Services Tableau Debut: Featured synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

  • Theme: ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’ (Strong and Secure India).
  • Showcased indigenous defense technologies.

• DRDO Tableau: Displayed cutting-edge innovations for national security.

  • Theme: ‘Raksha Kavach–Multi-layer Protection against Multi-domain Threats’.
  • Highlighted indigenously developed defense technologies.

• State Tableaux: Showcased diverse themes from various states and UTs.

  • Included cultural heritage, development, and unique aspects of each region.
  • Example: Uttar Pradesh depicted Mahakumbh 2025.

• Padma Awards: 139 Padma Awards conferred.

  • Categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
  • Recognized exceptional and distinguished service.

• Gallantry Awards and Defence Decorations: President conferred awards to armed forces and CAPF personnel.

  • Wartime and Peacetime Awards: Honored bravery in different situations.

• Jeevan Raksha Padak Awards: 49 awards recognized civilian bravery in saving lives.

  • Categories: Sarvottam, Uttam, and Jeevan Raksha Padak.

• Republic Day Significance: Commemorates India’s transition to a sovereign democratic republic.

  • Marks the enforcement of the Constitution on January 26, 1950.
  • January 26 chosen to honor the Purna Swaraj declaration (1930).

Paraquat

• Death Sentence: A 24-year-old woman in India was sentenced to death for poisoning her boyfriend with paraquat in 2022.

• What is Paraquat: It is a widely used herbicide (weed killer).

• Usage: Used to control weeds and dry crops before harvest.

• Hazard Classification: The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies paraquat as moderately hazardous.

• Banned in Many Countries: Its sale is banned in over 70 countries (including China and the EU) due to its toxicity. However, it is used in the US and India.

• Exposure: Primarily through ingestion, but can also be absorbed through prolonged skin contact.

• Symptoms of Poisoning: Vary depending on the amount of exposure. Small amounts lead to organ damage over time. Large amounts can cause acute organ failure, seizures, and respiratory failure. Immediate symptoms include abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and nausea.

• Treatment: There is no known antidote. Immunosuppression or charcoal hemoperfusion are sometimes mentioned as treatments.

• Paraquat Degradation: It is completely degraded by soil microorganisms.

• Paraquat Poisoning Classification: It is classified into the mild, moderate, and fulminant poisoning.

IWAI

• IWAI Upgrades Varanasi Office: IWAI has upgraded its Varanasi sub-office to a full-fledged Regional Office to improve inland water transport on National Waterway-1 (NW-1), the Ganga River.

• Expansion of Regional Network: This expansion marks the sixth regional office for IWAI, demonstrating the organization’s growing footprint across India.

• IWAI’s Core Mandate: IWAI is a statutory body responsible for developing, maintaining, and regulating inland waterways for shipping and navigation. This includes infrastructure development, channel maintenance (dredging), and conducting project feasibility studies.

• National Waterways Importance: IWAI focuses on developing National Waterways like NW-1 (Prayagraj to Haldia), NW-2 (Sadiya to Dhubri), NW-3, NW-4, and NW-5 to promote inland water transport.

• Strategic Importance of NW-1: NW-1, with its strategic location along the Ganga, is a vital route for cargo movement, and enhancing IWAI’s presence in Varanasi directly aids the waterway’s effective operation.

• Ministry Oversight: IWAI operates under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Titan Arum

• Rare Blooming: A “corpse flower” (Amorphophallus titanium) at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney recently bloomed, attracting over 20,000 visitors. This event is newsworthy because corpse flower bloomings are infrequent and spectacular.

• Origin & Name: Native to Sumatra, Indonesia, the plant’s Indonesian name translates to “corpse flower,” hence the common name. Its scientific name is Amorphophallus titanium. The reason for highlighting origin is to contextualize the rarity of the bloom outside its natural habitat. The reason for name highlight is the reason behind the name and the smell its infamous for.

• Unique Characteristics: The flower can grow up to 3 meters tall and emits a strong odor of decaying meat. The smell is key, as it explains the plant’s name and attracts pollinators.

• Inconsistent Blooms: Corpse flowers bloom irregularly, often only once per decade, sometimes more frequently. The unpredictability of blooming adds to the event’s significance.

• Complex Life Cycle: The plant requires a large amount of stored energy to bloom, going through leaf cycles to accumulate it. The bloom only lasts a day. The life cycle is important as it explains the time scale for blooms, making them rare events.

• Pollination Strategy: The carrion scent attracts insects that lay eggs in rotting meat, facilitating pollination between male and female flowers. Female flowers open first to prevent self-pollination. Chemicals such as Dimethyl disulfide, Dimethyl trisulfide, 3-Methylbutanal, Dimethyl sulfide and Methanethiol, Methyl thioacetate and Isovaleric acid, are emitted. The pollination is important because it sheds light on adaptation of plant for pollination and reproduction.

• Endangered Status: The Amorphophallus titanium is categorized as Endangered by the IUCN. Highlighting this brings attention to conservation concerns.

• Not Found in India: Corpse flower is not found in India.

White-Naped Tit

• First Sighting in Kappatagudda: Bird enthusiasts recently spotted the White-naped Tit in North Karnataka’s Kappatagudda hills for the first time, identified by its distinctive call.
• Endemic to India: The White-naped Tit ( Machlolophus nuchalis ) is found only in India.
• Disjunct Populations: It exists in two separate populations: Northwest India (Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan) and South India (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu).
• Habitat: Its preferred habitat is dry thorn scrub forest.
• Distinctive Appearance: The only pied (black and white) tit in India, easily identified by its black upperparts, white nape patch, white cheeks and underparts with a black central band, and white wing patch.
• Social Behavior: Usually observed in pairs or small family groups.
• Conservation Status: Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, highlighting its threatened status.
• Kappatagudda Location: The Kappatagudda Hills, the site of the new sighting, are located in the Gadag district of Karnataka.
• Significance: This sighting expands the known range of the species in South India and underscores the importance of Kappatagudda hills for bird diversity.

JN Port

• JNPA Aims for Global Ranking: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) aims to be among the world’s top ports by handling 10 million TEUs annually by 2027. This signifies India’s ambition to enhance its global trade presence.

• Record Throughput in 2024: JNPA handled a record 7.05 million TEUs in 2024, operating at over 90% capacity. This indicates strong growth and efficient operations.

• Significant Year-on-Year Growth: The port experienced an 11% year-on-year growth in TEU handling. Highlights increasing demand and JNPA’s growing importance in trade.

• India’s First Landlord Major Port: JNPA is India’s first major port to fully adopt the landlord port model. Promotes private sector involvement and efficient infrastructure development.

• Expansion and Connectivity: Planned satellite port at Vadhavan and dry ports at Jalna and Wardha aim to enhance connectivity and trade efficiency. These expansions will boost JNPA’s capacity and reach.

• Strategic Importance: Located in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, JNPA handles a significant portion of India’s maritime trade, with the maritime sector handling 95% of trade by volume. Showcases the port’s crucial role in the national economy.

RBI Ombudsman Scheme

• “One Nation One Ombudsman” Approach: Launched on November 12, 2021, the scheme aims to create a jurisdiction-neutral and unified grievance redressal mechanism.
• Integration of Previous Schemes: Consolidates the Banking Ombudsman Scheme 2006, NBFC Ombudsman Scheme 2018, and Digital Transactions Ombudsman Scheme 2019.
• Deficiency in Service: Complaints are based on “deficiency in service,” defined as shortcomings in the financial service provided by regulated entities (REs), with specified exclusions.
• Centralized Processing: A centralized center in Chandigarh handles initial processing of complaints received via physical or email means and in any language.
• No Appeal for Information Failure: REs cannot appeal ombudsman awards if they failed to provide satisfactory and timely information.
• Wide Coverage: Includes all commercial banks, NBFCs, RRBs, Payment System Participants, most Primary (Urban) Cooperative Banks (deposit size > ₹50 crore), and Credit Information Companies.
• Compensation: Maximum compensation is ₹20 lakh, plus up to ₹1 lakh for the complainant’s loss of time.
• Complaint Filing: Any person with a grievance against a covered institution can file a complaint themselves or through legal representatives.
• Introduced By: Reserve Bank of India
• Ombudsman Eligibility: An executive of the rank of General Manager, Chief General Manager, or other suitable authority can be ombudsman.

Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA)

• New Research Focus: A recent study highlights Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA) as a life-threatening fungal infection, particularly affecting TB survivors among tea plantation workers in Assam.

• Cause: CPA is caused by Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus that commonly affects individuals with weakened immune systems or pre-existing lung damage.

• Lung Disease: It is a chronic lung disease that commonly occurs in pre-existing lung cavities.

• Association with TB: CPA often occurs in post-TB or active TB patients and shares similar clinical features with TB, making diagnosis challenging.

• Not Contagious: CPA cannot be transmitted from person to person.

• Symptoms: Early stages may be asymptomatic. Later symptoms include coughing up blood (most common), unintentional weight loss, fatigue, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

• Treatment: Primarily treated with antifungal medications. Surgery to remove fungal masses is also an option.

• Aspergillus: Aspergillus fungi are widespread in the environment (soil, decaying vegetation). While most species are harmless, some are opportunistic pathogens in humans.

• Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis (IPA): IPA is a related infection that predominantly affects immunocompromised patients and has a high mortality rate.

NVD 2025

• 15th National Voters’ Day (NVD): January 25th, 2025, commemorating 75 years of the Election Commission of India (ECI). It follows the successful 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.

• Significance: Celebrated annually since 2011 to mark the ECI’s establishment on January 25th, 1950, promoting voter awareness and participation.

• Theme: “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure” emphasizes the importance of voting and pride in electoral participation.

• Electorate Size: India nears 100 crore voters (99.1 crore registered), including 21.7 crore young electors (18-29). The Electoral Gender Ratio has improved to 954 in 2025 (from 948 in 2024).

• Best Electoral Practices Awards: The President of India will present awards recognizing excellence in election management for District Election Officers, Superintendents of Police, and states.

• Publications: The ECI Coffee Table Book “India Votes 2024: A Saga of Democracy” and the publication “Belief in the Ballot: Human Stories Shaping India’s 2024 Elections” will be presented.

• Why it Matters: NVD emphasizes voter engagement, celebrates democratic participation, and acknowledges improvements in electoral processes, particularly with a growing and increasingly gender-balanced electorate. The awards highlight and encourage best practices in election management.

Abyssal Quest

• Deep Ocean Mission Launched: Government of India’s initiative to support the Blue Economy.
• Multi-Ministerial & Multi-Disciplinary: Aims for a better understanding of deep-sea resources.
• Central Sector Scheme: Budget of Rs 4,077 crores for 2021-2026.
• Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) Nodal Agency: Implementing the mission.
• Six Major Components:
  • Deep Sea Mining Tech & Manned Submersible
  • Ocean Climate Change Advisory Services
  • Deep-Sea Biodiversity Conservation
  • Deep Ocean Survey and Exploration
  • Energy and Freshwater from the Ocean
  • Advanced Marine Station for Ocean Biology
• Samudrayaan Project: Development of manned submersible (Matsya 6000) to carry 3 people to 6000m depth.
• Matsya 6000 Progress: Vehicle design complete, sub-components realized.
• Purpose: To develop technologies to harness living and non-living deep-ocean resources.
• Deep Ocean Ownership: Governed by UNCLOS, considered “common heritage of mankind”.
• Deepest Ocean Point: Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench (approx. 10,935 meters).

DRDO Scramjet Soars

• DRDO Scramjet Test Success: DRDO successfully conducted a ground test of a Scramjet engine.

  • Why: This demonstrates progress in India’s hypersonic missile technology.

• Scramjet Engine Explained: Scramjets are air-breathing engines, advanced ramjets using supersonic airflow for combustion, enabling high speeds.

  • Why: Highlights the engine’s functionality for hypersonic travel, differing from turbojets due to the absence of moving parts.

• Fuel Efficiency & Design: Uses liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen for fuel, offering better fuel efficiency, consisting of only an inlet, combustor, and nozzle.

  • Why: Explains the engine’s components and highlights fuel efficiency and thrust.

• Hypersonic Vehicle Key: Scramjets are crucial for hypersonic vehicles, enabling maneuverability and strategic advantages at speeds exceeding the speed of sound.

  • Why: Illustrates the strategic importance of scramjets in hypersonic applications.

• DRDO Achievements: Achieved stable combustion, developed indigenous endothermic scramjet fuel, and thermal barrier coating.

  • Why: Details DRDO’s specific technological advancements in scramjet development, improving cooling, ignition and extreme heat protection.

• Hypersonic Missile Capabilities: Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds over Mach 5, bypassing air defenses with high-speed strikes.

  • Why: Emphasizes the strategic advantage of hypersonic missiles.

• Global Hypersonic Race: The US, Russia, and China are also advancing hypersonic tech.

  • Why: Positions India’s efforts within a global context of hypersonic weapons development.

Doctrine of Merger

• Core Principle: When a higher court rules on a case, the lower court’s decision merges into the higher court’s ruling. This means the higher court’s order becomes the operative one.

• Rationale: Avoids conflicting orders on the same issue. There can only be one enforceable order at a time.

• Hierarchy of Courts: Maintains decorum by ensuring the superior court’s decision prevails.

• Enforcement: The order of the superior court is enforced, replacing the lower court’s order.

• Non-Statutory: The doctrine isn’t written into law but is a judicial principle ensuring discipline in lower courts.

• Limited Application: Not universally applicable. Its application depends on the higher court’s jurisdiction and the specific issues being challenged.

• Impact: Ensures consistency and clarity in legal outcomes when multiple court levels are involved.

Rakhigarhi: Key Facts

• Location: Rakhigarhi is located in Hisar district, Haryana, India, in the Ghaggar-Hakra river plain.

  • Why: This specifies the geographical location of the important archaeological site.

• Significance: It’s one of the largest and oldest cities of the Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan Civilization), dating back to approximately 6500 BCE.

  • Why: Highlights its importance as a major urban center of the Harappan culture.

• Indian Cities: Rakhigarhi and Dholavira (Gujarat) are the only two major Harappan cities within India’s current political boundaries.

  • Why: Emphasizes its importance in the Indian context of Harappan sites.

• Discovery: The site was first discovered in the 1960s by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

  • Why: Notes the initial discovery and the organization involved.

• Extent: Seven archaeological mounds are spread over approximately 350 hectares.

  • Why: Indicates the scale and scope of the settlement.

• Occupation Periods: Primarily occupied during the Early and Mature Harappan periods, abandoned during the Late Harappan period.

  • Why: Specifies the timeline of settlement and abandonment.

• Findings: Excavations revealed a planned township with mud-brick and burnt-brick houses, a proper drainage system, and red ware pottery.

  • Why: Lists key architectural and cultural finds.

• Ritual Practices: Animal sacrificial pits and fire alters suggest ritual systems of the Harappans.

  • Why: Points to insights into Harappan religious practices.

• Artifacts: Cylindrical seal with Harappan characters, blades, bangles, beads, figurines, toy cart, bone points, and inscribed steatite seals were found.

  • Why: Highlights the variety of artifacts discovered at the site.

• Burials: Extended burials suggest a very late stage of occupation, possibly medieval times.

  • Why: Notes later-period evidence at the site.

• DNA Evidence: Rakhigarhi is known for yielding the only DNA evidence from the Harappan era.

  • Why: Underscores a critical scientific contribution from the site.

• River: Situated on the bank of the now-dry Saraswati river.

  • Why: Notes the River on which the civilization was situated

• First Excavator The excavation of Rakhigarhi was first conducted by Dr. V. N. Misra, an Indian archaeologist, in the early 1990s.
  *Why: Mention the Archeologist who excavated for the first time and their country.

• Age: Human remains date back approximately 8,000 years.
  *Why: Human remains were found which dates back 8000 years.

• City of Dead: Mohenjo-daro, is also known as “Mound of the Dead”
  *Why: City known for dead in civilization period.

MGNREGA Wage Delays

• Delayed Wages: A study reveals ₹39 crore in delayed MGNREGA wages in FY 2021-22.
• ABPS Inefficiency: Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) is delaying payments, potentially causing ₹400 crore in unaccounted delay compensation, with only 43% of workers eligible when it became mandatory.
• Caste-Based Inequities: Caste-based wage segregation led to payment delays for ‘Other’ caste workers compared to SC and ST workers.
• Inadequate Funding: Delayed payments are primarily due to insufficient funds from the central government, with only 29% of payments processed within the mandated 7-day period in FY 2021-22.
• Budget Shortfall: MGNREGA budget allocation is critically underfunded, at 0.41% of GDP in FY 2021-22, far below the required level to meet rural employment demand, falling to 0.2% in FY 2023-24 and FY 2024-25. Researchers recommend 1.2% to 1.5% of GDP.
• MGNREGA Purpose: The MGNREGA aims to provide at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment to registered adult rural households willing to undertake unskilled manual work, however the budget allocation is not enough for this
• Required Steps: Increase budget allocation, improve digital systems like ABPS, strengthen accountability for delays, and ensure equitable wage distribution.

India’s Fertility Dip

• Declining TFR: India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has dropped significantly, from 6.18 in the 1950s to 1.9 in 2021, falling below the replacement level of 2.1. Projections estimate a further decline to 1.04 by 2100.

• Regional Disparities: Southern states achieved replacement-level fertility rates earlier. Kerala’s aged population is projected to surpass its child population by 2036.

• Driving Factors: Socio-economic factors like increased female literacy, workforce participation, women’s empowerment, changing attitudes towards marriage and parenthood, health factors such as infertility, abortion accessibility, and migration for education and jobs are major contributors.

• Consequences: Rapidly aging population with a growing elderly population (projected to be 20.8% by 2050), potentially straining social welfare, healthcare, and pension systems, unlike developed nations facing similar issues with higher per capita incomes. Reduced workforce impacting productivity, potentially leading to middle-income trap.

• Policy Solutions: Adapt flexible labor policies and parental benefits, make education affordable, upgrade public institutions for skills, offer subsidies, and ensure economic growth supports the aging population. Focus on maternal and child health and nutrition through existing schemes. Promote access to affordable IVF and surrogacy.

Pangsau Pass

• Pangsau Pass International Festival: Recently celebrated in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting cross-border trade and cultural exchange with Myanmar.

• Location and Significance: Pangsau Pass (1,136m) sits on the India-Myanmar border in the Patkai Hills, offering a relatively easy route from Assam into Myanmar.

• Historical Importance: It’s believed to be the invasion route of the Ahoms in the 13th century. Also, significant during WWII as a key obstacle for General Stilwell’s forces building a land route to China.

• “Hell Gate”: The pass is nicknamed “Hell Gate” due to challenging terrain in the Indo-Burma Patkai Range.

• Festival Purpose: The annual festival in Nampong aims to foster trade and cultural exchange between India and Myanmar. It allows tribes from both regions to showcase their culture and traditions.

• Lake of No Return: The pass provides views of the famous “Lake of No Return” located on the Myanmar side.

Nahargarh’s Wild Side

• Location & History: Situated in the Aravalli hills, 20 km from Jaipur, Rajasthan. Named after Nahargarh Fort, built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
• Area: Encompasses 720 hectares.
• Nahargarh Biological Park: Part of the sanctuary, known for its lion safaris.
• Flora: Dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and grasslands.
• Fauna: Leopards, wild boars, deer, lions, tigers, sloth bears, and other small mammals. Diverse birdlife including peacocks, owls, and eagles. Reptiles like Indian rock pythons and monitor lizards, plus amphibians.
• Biological Park Animals: Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, panthers, hyenas, wolves, deer, crocodiles, sloth bear, Himalayan black bear, wild boar, etc.
• Largest Wildlife Sanctuary (India): The Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat.
• Largest Tiger Reserve (India): Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana).

Mauritius Hydro Survey

• Successful Hydrographic Survey: The Indian Navy completed a hydrographic survey of 25,000 sq nautical miles of Mauritius. This provides Mauritius with updated nautical charts.

• INS Sarvekshak’s Role: INS Sarvekshak conducted the survey, mapping the ocean floor and subsurface features. INS Sarvekshak is based at Kochi and equipped with advanced survey tools and has conducted surveys in Sri Lanka, Seychelles, and Tanzania.

• Enhanced Maritime Capabilities: The survey will enhance Mauritius’ maritime infrastructure, resource management, and coastal planning.

• India-Mauritius Partnership: This underscores the strong and continuing partnership between India and Mauritius, particularly in maritime development and regional cooperation.

• SAGAR Initiative: The hydrographic survey aligns with India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative. The Indian Navy regularly assists countries with hydrographic surveys of their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) as part of the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative.

• Capacity Building: India is increasing capacity-building assistance to Indian Ocean littoral states.

• Hydrographic Survey Achievements: Over the past five years, the Indian Navy has conducted hydrographic surveys with friendly nations, covering 89,000 sq. km and producing 96 charts.

• Defence Cooperation: India and Mauritius have strong defense cooperation including joint coastal radar surveillance and aircraft supplied by India. Mauritius has an International Liaison Officer at the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre for Indian Ocean Region in Gurugram, India.

Shompen People

• Isolated and Understudied: The Shompen are among Earth’s most isolated and least studied Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India.

• Location: They inhabit the dense rainforests of Great Nicobar Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

• Unique Origins: Their origins differ from most Nicobarese, but both have Mongoloid ancestry.

• Ecological Significance: Their habitat is a vital biological hotspot, encompassing national parks and a biosphere reserve.

• Population Uncertainty: The 2011 Census estimates 229, but the exact population remains unknown due to limited contact.

• Nomadic Lifestyle: They are nomadic hunter-gatherers, living in small groups and moving between forest camps.

• Diet and Agriculture: Their staple food is the pandanus fruit, and they cultivate small gardens for lemon, chillies, and betel.

• Distinct Language: They speak their own language with multiple mutually unintelligible dialects.

• Physical Characteristics: They exhibit Mongoloid features like light brown skin and oblique eyes.

• Family Structure: They live in nuclear families controlled by the eldest male. Monogamy is generally practiced, but polygamy is allowed.

• Animistic Beliefs: Their belief system is primarily animistic. They worship the moon (Houou) as their goddess.

OMSS (Domestic) Policy

• Revision of OMSS(D) Policy: The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has revised the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) (OMSS(D)) policy for 2024-25. This aims to improve food security and ethanol production.

• Purpose of OMSS: It involves the sale of surplus food grains (wheat and rice) from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) central pool. This helps control inflation and stabilize food grain prices.

• Eligible Buyers: Wheat is sold to processors, atta chalkis, and flour millers, while rice is sold to traders. States can procure grains beyond NFSA allocation without auctions.

• Auction Mechanism: E-auctions are used, with minimum bid quantity of 10 MT and maximum of 100 MT for wheat. For rice, the range is 10 MT minimum and 1000 MT maximum.

• Reduced Reserve Price for Rice: The central government reduced the reserve price of FCI rice under OMSS by ₹550 to ₹2,250 per quintal for states and ethanol producers.

  • Reasoning: This reduction aims to increase sales, support ethanol production, and improve overall food security.

Bhitarkanika Reptile Count

• Reptile Census: The annual reptile census at Bhitarkanika National Park (BNP) reveals the saltwater crocodile population is 1,826 in 2025, including 18 rare albino crocodiles.
• Crocodile Conservation Project: Started in 1975 in Odisha, it aims to protect and conserve Mugger, Gharial, and Saltwater Crocodile populations.
• Project Goals: Increase crocodile sightings to 5-6 per kilometer of water.
• Project Objectives: Protecting crocodile habitats through sanctuaries, rebuilding populations via egg collection and rearing, personnel training.
• Implementation: Initiated with UNDP and FAO assistance.
• Sanctuaries: Important crocodile conservation sanctuaries include Bhitarkanika National Park for saltwater crocodiles and National Chambal Sanctuary for gharials.
• Achievement: Saltwater crocodile population steadily increased since 1975. Crocodile breeding program stopped in 2024 due to saturation.
• Bhitarkanika National Park (BNP): India’s 2nd largest mangrove ecosystem in Odisha, recognized as a Ramsar Site.
• Ecosystem: Network of creeks and canals fed by rivers create a unique ecosystem with intertidal vegetation.
• Fauna: Home to the largest congregation of saltwater crocodiles in India, along with water monitor lizards, pythons, and hyenas.
• Key Features: Gahirmatha Beach is the largest nesting site for Olive Ridley Sea Turtles; Bagagahana is a heronry with thousands of nesting birds.

INCOIS Wins Bose Award 2025

• The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has been awarded the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2025 in the Institutional Category.

• The award recognizes INCOIS’s outstanding contributions to disaster management.

• The award is presented annually on January 23rd, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary.

• The institutional category award includes a cash prize of Rs 51 lakh.

• INCOIS, established in 1999, specializes in ocean-related disaster management, particularly tsunami early warnings.

• INCOIS operates the Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC), providing tsunami alerts within 10 minutes to India and 28 Indian Ocean countries. This rapid response capability is crucial for saving lives and mitigating damage.

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• UNESCO recognizes INCOIS as a Top Tsunami Service Provider, highlighting its global significance in tsunami warning systems.

• INCOIS functions under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and is a unit of the Earth System Science Organization (ESSO), New Delhi.

• INCOIS developed the Search and Rescue Aided Tool (SARAT) for locating individuals or objects lost at sea.

• They also created the SynOPS visualization platform for real-time data integration, aiding disaster response efforts.

• INCOIS is a permanent member of the Indian delegation to the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO.

Death Penalty Factors

• “Rarest of Rare” Doctrine: The Supreme Court (SC) in Bachan Singh vs. State of Punjab (1980), upheld the death penalty’s constitutionality but restricted its use to the “rarest of rare” cases after balancing aggravating and mitigating circumstances.

• Aggravating vs. Mitigating Circumstances: These are factors considered in sentencing, especially for the death penalty. Aggravating factors may lead to a death sentence, while mitigating factors may result in a lesser punishment.

• Aggravating Factors: Pre-planned and brutal murders, “exceptional depravity,” or the murder of a public servant on duty.

• Mitigating Factors: Extreme mental or emotional disturbance, young or very old age of the accused, potential for reform, acting under duress, morally justified actions (as perceived by the accused), or mental inability to understand the crime’s nature.

• Evolving Interpretation: Post-Bachan Singh, the SC’s application of aggravating and mitigating circumstances has varied.

• Age as a Factor: The SC has shown inconsistency on considering age as a factor; 262nd Law Commission Report highlighted this inconsistency.

• Nature of Offence: Machhi Singh vs. State of Punjab (1983) emphasized societal “collective conscience” being shocked as a justification, shifting focus to the crime’s nature.

• Possibility of Reform: Santosh Bariyar vs State of Maharashtra (2009) necessitates clear evidence showing the convict is beyond reform.

• Separate Hearing Required: Bachan Singh mandated a separate hearing post-conviction to argue against the death penalty. Dattaraya vs. State of Maharashtra (2020) showed a lack of proper hearing can result in commuting a death sentence.

• Death Penalty Laws: The Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (2023) prescribes the death penalty for heinous crimes.

• SC Rulings: Jagmohan Singh Case (1972) upheld capital punishment’s constitutionality. Shatrughan Chauhan Case (2014) considered execution delays a factor for commutation. Manoj vs State of Maharashtra Case (2022) emphasized balancing aggravating and mitigating factors.

• Law Commission: Supported the death penalty initially (35th Report, 1967) but later called for abolition for all crimes except terrorism (262nd Report, 2015).

CBDT’s PPT Rule Update

• CBDT Issues New Guidelines for Principal Purpose Test (PPT) under Double Tax Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs): Aims to prevent tax avoidance by ensuring treaty benefits are not misused.

• Prospective Applicability: Guidelines apply to future investments, protecting pre-April 1, 2017 investments from retrospective scrutiny.

• Exemptions for Specific Treaties (Grandfathering): Treaties with Cyprus, Mauritius, and Singapore are exempt due to prior commitments. Investments made before specified dates under these treaties will follow original treaty provisions.

• Reference to Global Standards: Tax authorities should refer to BEPS Action Plan 6 and the UN Model Tax Convention for PPT application.

• What is PPT?: PPT is an international tax rule that verifies if a business arrangement is genuinely commercial or designed primarily for tax avoidance. Treaty benefits can be denied if the primary purpose is tax-saving.

• What are DTAAs?: DTAAs are treaties between two countries that help taxpayers avoid being taxed twice on the same income. They specify which country has the right to tax certain income.

• India’s DTAA Network: India has signed 94 DTAAs with countries including Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Mauritius, the USA, and the UK.

Sanjay Surveillance

• Sanjay Surveillance System Flagged Off: The Minister of Defence recently launched ‘SANJAY – The Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS)’ in New Delhi.
• Battlefield Integration: SANJAY integrates data from ground and aerial sensors, verifying, processing, and fusing it to create a comprehensive battlefield picture.
• Enhanced Surveillance: Equipped with advanced sensors and analytics, it monitors land borders, prevents intrusions, and enhances Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance.
• Network-Centric Operations: Facilitates operations in conventional and sub-conventional scenarios within a network-centric environment.
• Deployment Timeline: To be inducted into operational units in phases from March to October 2025, coinciding with the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence.
• Indigenous Development: Jointly developed by the Indian Army and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
• Data and Network Centricity: Aims to significantly improve data handling and network capabilities within the Indian Army.
• Enhanced Battlefield Transparency: Centralized web application provides crucial inputs to command structures and the Army Headquarters, improving battlefield awareness and decision-making.
• Force Multiplier: The System is expected to be a major force multiplier for the Indian Army.

Blue Carbon

• High Carbon Sequestration Rate: Mangroves and coastal wetlands sequester carbon 10 times faster than mature tropical forests.

• Definition of Blue Carbon: Carbon captured and stored by the world’s ocean and coastal ecosystems, specifically mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. These form ‘blue carbon ecosystems’.

• Effective Carbon Sinks: Blue carbon ecosystems are nature’s most efficient carbon sinks, storing more carbon per area than terrestrial forests.

• Threats to Blue Carbon Ecosystems: Human activities are the primary drivers of blue carbon ecosystem loss. These include aquaculture, agriculture, mangrove exploitation, pollution, and coastal development.

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• Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation: Blue carbon ecosystems help mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration and support adaptation through coastal protection and food security.

• Blue vs. Green Carbon: Blue carbon is stored by coastal/marine ecosystems, while green carbon is stored by terrestrial ecosystems.

• Benefits of Blue Carbon Ecosystems: Beyond carbon storage, these ecosystems benefit wildlife, water quality, storm surge protection, and local economies.

NVS-02

• ISRO Launches NVS-02: India’s ISRO launched the NVS-02 satellite using the GSLV rocket.

• Part of NavIC System: NVS-02 is a second-generation satellite for the NavIC (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System) navigation system.

• Replacing Existing Satellites: It’s the second of five new satellites meant to replace older ones in the NavIC constellation.

• Enhanced Technology: NVS-02 includes indigenous atomic clocks for precise timekeeping, similar to NVS-01. The first one was launched on board GSLV-F12 in 2023.

• Satellite Features: Weighs 2,250 kg, 3 kW power, navigation payload in L1, L5, and S bands, and a C-band ranging payload.

• Atomic Clock: Features a Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard (RAFS) for accurate timing.

• Long Lifespan: Designed for a 12-year lifespan and has more accurate atomic clocks.

• Orbit Position: Will replace IRNSS-1E at 111.75°E in orbit.

• Improved Navigation: Aims to enhance NavIC services for navigation, precision agriculture, emergency services, fleet management, and mobile location.

• Global Compatibility: Includes new L1 band signals to improve NavIC’s compatibility with other global navigation systems.

• Developed in India: Designed, developed, and integrated at the U R Satellite Centre (URSC).

Halal Debate: Beyond Meat

• Solicitor General’s Opposition: The Solicitor General opposes halal certification for non-meat products like cement, iron bars, wheat flour, and gram flour. Why: Questions the necessity and scope of halal certification beyond food items.

• Unfair Competition Allegations: Halal certification for non-meat products is alleged to disadvantage businesses not adhering to halal standards, creating unfair market competition. Why: Claims that the certification system gives certified products an undue advantage.

• Forged Certificates and Misuse: Accusations that companies are issuing forged halal certificates and exploiting religious sentiments to increase sales. Why: Undermines the integrity of the certification process and fosters social division.

• Lack of National System: India lacks a unified national halal certification system. Why: Leads to inconsistencies and potential for fraudulent certifications.

• i-CAS for Meat Products: The i-CAS (Indian Conformity Assessment Scheme) is being implemented to streamline halal certification specifically for meat products for export. Why: Aims to create a standardized and regulated system for meat product certification.

• Definition of Halal: Halal, meaning “permissible” in Arabic, signifies adherence to Islamic law in food preparation and production. Why: Establishes the context and religious basis for halal certification.

Accessible India Enhanced

• News: The Supreme Court (SC) in Rajive Raturi v. Union of India Case, 2024, invalidated Rule 15 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Rules, 2017.
• Why: The SC found Rule 15 inconsistent with the RPwD Act, 2016, as it gave ministries discretionary power over accessibility guidelines, conflicting with the Act’s mandatory provisions.
• Impact of Rule 15: Rule 15 established a framework for accessibility guidelines across government departments, granting statutory authority to guidelines issued by ministries.
• SC’s Reasoning: The Act mandates accessibility, while Rule 15 allowed for non-binding guidelines, hindering effective social audits and consistent implementation.
• Accessibility vs. Reasonable Accommodation: The SC differentiated between accessibility (universal design) and reasonable accommodation (specific needs), both vital for equality.
• New Guidelines: The government has been directed to create new mandatory accessibility guidelines within 3 months, focusing on universal design, comprehensive inclusion, assistive technologies, and consultation with persons with disabilities.
• RPwD Act, 2016: This Act protects the rights of persons with disabilities and promotes equal opportunities. It expands the definition of disability and mandates government responsibility.
• Challenges: Inaccessible infrastructure, educational exclusion, employment challenges, and inadequate political representation hinder the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
• Way Forward: Improve infrastructure, enhance prosthetics R&D, implement accurate identification systems, promote gig economy inclusion, and consider political reservations for persons with disabilities.

Typhon Weapon System

• The U.S. military recently relocated its Typhon missile launchers within the Philippines. This enhances mobility and survivability, amid rising tensions with China and Russia.

• Typhon (Mid-Range Capability – MRC) is a versatile, mobile, ground-launched surface-to-surface missile system. It enhances the U.S. Army’s long-range strike capabilities.

• Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, its modular design allows it to fire various missile types, primarily the SM-6 and Tomahawk.

• SM-6 has a range of 500 km with surface-to-air and surface target strike capabilities.

• Tomahawk cruise missile has a range of 2,500 km traditionally used for land attacks but increasingly capable of anti-ship missions.

• A Typhon battery includes four launchers, a command post, reload, and support vehicles on trailers.

Dhanauri Wetland

• NGT Order: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to report on the status of notifying Dhanauri water body as a wetland within four weeks.
• Location and Significance: Dhanauri Wetland is located in Greater Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh, close to Okhla bird sanctuary and Surajpur wetland. It lies within the Yamuna Basin floodplains.
• Ecological Importance: It’s a crucial habitat for the vulnerable Sarus Crane and other bird species like Common teal, Mallard, Greylag geese, and various storks. Bird Life International recognizes it as an Important Bird Area (IBA).
• Sarus Crane Facts: The Sarus Crane is the world’s tallest flying bird. The Indian Sarus Crane is the heaviest and tallest among its subspecies and is classified as ‘Vulnerable’ under the IUCN Red List.
• Wetland Type: Dhanauri is an urban wetland in the Yamuna River basin.
• Ramsar Status: Dhanauri wetlands is awaiting the protected status as Ramsar Site.
• Smallest Wetland in India: The Renuka Wetland in Himachal Pradesh is considered the smallest wetland in India.
• First Ramsar Site in India: The Chilika Lake in Odisha was the first site in India to be designated as a Ramsar site.

Rhodamine B

• FDA Ban Reinforced: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reinforced its ban on Rhodamine B in all food-related applications.

• Carcinogenic Concerns: This ban is due to increasing evidence showing that Rhodamine B possesses carcinogenic properties.

• What is Rhodamine B: It’s a synthetic dye with a bright pink color, commonly used in textiles, paper, and leather industries, and in scientific research for its fluorescent properties.

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• Health Risks: Rhodamine B poses significant health risks when consumed, including potential DNA damage, mutations, and cancerous growths, as indicated by animal studies showing tumor development.

• Allergic Reactions: Sensitive individuals may experience allergic reactions like itching, redness, and skin thickening. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic allergies and permanent skin pigmentation changes.

• Toxicity: The chemical is toxic to humans and can cause oxidative stress on cells and tissues if ingested.

• Food Usage: It’s used as a colorant in some foods like chili powder and chili oil, which can be very harmful.

FAO Nitrogen Sustainability

• Why in News: FAO released a report on Sustainable Nitrogen Management in agrifood systems, highlighting nitrogen pollution issues.
• Current Emissions: Human activities add 150 Tg of reactive nitrogen annually, potentially rising to 600 Tg by 2100, significantly exceeding pre-industrial levels.
• Major Sources: Livestock contributes one-third of emissions, followed by synthetic fertilizers, land-use change, and manure.
• Exceedance of Boundaries: Global nitrogen flows surpass planetary boundaries, with a sharp increase since 2015.
• Global Crop Yields: Crop yields have increased, but Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) has fluctuated, highlighting inefficiencies.
• Regional Disparities: Asia faces pollution from fertilizer subsidies, Africa struggles with nutrient depletion, and Europe/North America show higher NUE through management. Latin America deals with fertilizer import challenges.
• Crop-Level Variation: NUE varies greatly; soybeans have high efficiency, while fruits and vegetables have low efficiency, indicating substantial losses.
• Developing Country Challenges: Limited fertilizer access and soil degradation hamper NUE in low- and middle-income nations.
• NUE Definition: NUE measures how efficiently plants use nitrogen for biomass. Poor NUE leads to pollution and reduced productivity, costing billions globally.
• Nitrogen Pollution: Excessive nitrogen compounds pollute air and water, harming health and biodiversity. Reactive nitrogen losses are significant, impacting the environment.
• Forms of Nitrogen Loss: Air pollution (ammonia, NOx), greenhouse gas emissions (nitrous oxide), and water pollution (nitrate leaching).
• Effects of Nitrogen Pollution: Global warming (nitrous oxide), biodiversity loss, smog, and dead zones in oceans.
• Key Proposals: Reduce emissions from fertilizer production and use, promote leguminous crops, redistribute livestock, integrate nitrogen management into climate goals (NDCs), and adopt circular bioeconomy principles.
• Sustainable Management: Encourage investment in efficient fertilizers, recycle organic residues, and improve fertilization strategies.
• Balancing Act: Policies must balance nitrogen as a nutrient and a pollutant for food security and environmental protection.
• Conclusion: Sustainable nitrogen management is crucial for achieving SDGs by 2030, focusing on hunger, health, water, climate, and biodiversity. Improving NUE can boost food production and reduce pollution.

Guillain-Barre Explained

• Recent Outbreak: Around 59 people in Pune have been recently affected with Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). This highlights a current area of concern.

• What is GBS?: A rare neurological disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord). This attack affects muscle control, pain, and sensory perception.

• Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but GBS often follows a viral or bacterial infection, vaccination, or surgery. These events can trigger an overactive immune response.

• Symptoms: Initial symptoms may include fever, followed by weakness and nervous system issues. Weakness can rapidly worsen, leading to paralysis in severe cases. Severity varies greatly, from mild weakness to life-threatening paralysis.

• Treatment: There is no cure. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a common treatment. IVIG helps to dampen the immune system’s attack on the nerves.

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• Key Facts: There’s no known cure and one common risk factor is infection with the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni. GBS is a neurological disorder which affects peripheral nervous system.New treatment strategies for GBS are mostly immunotherapies, including treatment against antibodies, complement pathways, immune cells and cytokines.

Northeast Statehood Day

• Statehood Day: Manipur, Tripura, and Meghalaya observe their Statehood Day on January 21st.

• Why in News: The Prime Minister greeted the states on this occasion.

• Historical Context – Manipur:

  • Princely state merged with India in 1949 after the Maharaja signed the Instrument of Accession, followed by the Merger Agreement.
  • Became a Part C state, then a Union Territory.
  • Achieved full statehood on January 21, 1972, through the North-Eastern Areas (Re-organization) Act, 1971.

• Historical Context – Tripura:

  • Princely state merged with India in 1949.
  • Became a Part C state, then a Union Territory.
  • Achieved full statehood on January 21, 1972, through the North-Eastern Areas (Re-organization) Act, 1971.

• Historical Context – Meghalaya:

  • Demand for autonomy from Assam to protect indigenous cultures.
  • Established as an autonomous state within Assam in 1969.
  • Granted full statehood on January 21, 1972, through the North-Eastern Areas (Re-organization) Act, 1971. Became India’s 21st state.

Eurodrone: Europe’s UAV

• India Joins as Observer: India has become an observer state in the Eurodrone program. This signifies India’s interest in the project and potential future collaboration.

• European Sovereignty: Eurodrone is a “European Programme for European Sovereignty,” aiming to reduce reliance on US and Israeli drone technology. This highlights Europe’s push for self-sufficiency in defense.

• MALE RPAS: The Eurodrone is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (MALE RPAS). This indicates its primary function: long-duration missions at moderate altitudes.

• Key Features: It boasts a 2.3-tonne payload, up to 40-hour endurance, and a twin-engine configuration for diverse environments. These features demonstrate its superior capabilities.

• Versatile Uses: It’s designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR), maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and airborne early warning. This emphasizes its multi-role capability.

• Safe Airspace Integration: Eurodrone is designed for safe and reliable flight in non-segregated airspace. This feature is crucial for operating in civilian-controlled airspace.

• Development Stage: The initiative began in 2022 and passed its preliminary design review (PDR) in 2024, with an expected service entry by 2030. It indicates the project is still under development.

• Member Nations: Germany, France, Italy, and Spain are the core members of the Eurodrone program. These countries are the primary drivers of the project.

• Cost: Each Eurodrone unit is estimated to cost $143 million. This figure provides insight into the financial investment of the program.

Bose Disaster Award

• INCOIS Wins 2025 Award: The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has been selected for the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025 in the Institutional Category.

• Purpose of the Award: Recognizes and honors invaluable contributions and selfless service in disaster management in India.

• Award Announcement Date: Announced annually on January 23, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

• Eligibility: Open to Indian nationals and Indian institutions.

• Qualifying Work: Contributions in areas like prevention, mitigation, preparedness, rescue, response, relief, rehabilitation, research/innovations, or early warning related to disaster management in India.

• Selection Process: A Screening Committee constituted by NDMA screens applications.

• Prize for Institutions: A certificate and ₹51 lakhs, to be used for disaster management activities.

• Prize for Individuals: A certificate and ₹5.00 lakhs.

• INCOIS Details: INCOIS was established in 1999 as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and is a unit of the Earth System Science Organization (ESSO).

• Subhash Chandra Bose: Considered a highly influential freedom fighter with extraordinary leadership skills.

US Policy Impact: India

• Birthright Citizenship: US policy shift potentially impacts Indian H-1B visa holders and Green Card applicants. Their US-born children may lose automatic citizenship. Could discourage Indian skilled workers from long-term migration to the US, with some opting for countries like Canada, UK, and Australia instead.

• Paris Agreement Withdrawal: US withdrawal reduces international climate finance for developing nations, including India, hindering renewable energy projects. Could result in increased emissions.

• WHO Withdrawal: US exit creates a funding gap in WHO, potentially slowing down India’s health programs (HIV, tuberculosis). However, India can emerge as a leader in global health governance.

• Global Corporate Minimum Tax (GCMT) Rejection: US rejection sets back international consensus on global tax rules, no immediate impact for India as India has refrained from introducing domestic legislation related to the GloBE rules.

• India’s Response:

  • Use diplomacy to protect Indian immigrants’ rights.
  • Strengthen Quad alliance for regional stability.
  • Accelerate renewable energy targets to show climate leadership.
  • Fill WHO leadership gaps with Indian professionals.
  • Partner with affected countries for collective action.

Dengue Alert System

• Dengue Early Warning System Proposed: A study by IITM-Pune introduces a system to predict dengue outbreaks in India up to two months in advance.
• Climate Change Influence: Fluctuating rainfall and humidity (60-78% during monsoons) increase dengue cases. Heavy rainfall (>150mm) reduces mosquito prevalence by flushing out eggs/larvae. Rising temperatures may increase dengue deaths by 40% by 2050.
• Prediction Method: The system analyzes climate data (temperature, rainfall, humidity) using Machine Learning and AI to enhance prediction accuracy.
• Proactive Measures: The early warning system provides crucial time for authorities to implement proactive measures.
• Dengue Basics: Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease (Genus Flavivirus) transmitted by Aedes aegypti. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, and joint/muscle pain. There is no specific treatment.

KaWaCHaM Explained

• Kerala Launches KaWaCHaM: Kerala government has initiated ‘KaWaCHaM’ (Kerala Warnings Crisis and Hazards Management System), a rapid weather alert system.
• Purpose: Designed to enhance disaster preparedness, improve public safety, and boost rescue efforts during extreme weather events resulting from climate change. ‘Kavacham’ means ‘shield’ in Malayalam, symbolizing protection.
• Funding: Developed with funds from the National Disaster Management Authority and the World Bank, as part of the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project.
• Key Features:
  • Includes hazard assessment, alert issuance, and action planning based on threat levels.
  • Installation of 126 sirens with strobe lights (red, yellow, orange) on tall structures, broadcasting warnings up to 1,200 meters.
  • Sirens provide pre-recorded voice messages and audio alerts.
  • Integrates all early warning systems for knowledge dissemination, warning issuance, crisis monitoring, and response coordination.
• Data Sources: Collects data from weather networks like IMD, INCOIS, and CWC, public/private agencies, social media, and the Internet.
• Coverage: Warnings cover sea attacks, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and extreme heat.
• Operation: Headed by the state emergency operation centre, operating at the taluk level, covering vulnerable areas.
• Why it matters: Kerala is prone to climate-related disasters, making early warning systems vital for saving lives and minimizing damage. KaWaCHaM’s speed and integration of various data sources and warning methods represents a significant advancement in disaster management.

Partnership Act 1932

• Supreme Court Ruling on Section 69: The Supreme Court has reaffirmed the mandatory nature of Section 69 of the Indian Partnership Act, 1932. This means unregistered firms and their partners cannot enforce contractual rights against each other. This emphasizes the importance of registration for legal enforceability.

• Definition of Partnership: The Act defines partnership as the relationship between individuals who have agreed to share the profits of a business carried on by all or any of them acting for all. This clarifies the core element of a partnership.

• Partnership Deed Importance: The partnership deed is crucial for determining partners’ rights and obligations within the firm. This highlights the need for a well-drafted agreement.

• Maximum Number of Partners: The Companies Act 2013 (section 464) sets the maximum number of partners in a partnership firm at 100.

• Section 69 Explained: Section 69 deals with the consequences of not registering a partnership firm, specifically limiting the firm’s ability to enforce contractual rights. This highlights the legal disabilities of unregistered firms.

• Types of Partnerships: The Act covers various partnership types, including General, Limited, Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP), and Limited Liability Limited Partnerships.

• Active Partner Defined: An active partner is one who is invested and involved in the daily operations of the partnership.

Indian Wolf

• Eight Indian Grey Wolf pups born at Bankapur Wolf Sanctuary: Karnataka’s first wolf sanctuary recorded the birth of eight pups, highlighting potential breeding success within the protected area.
• Species Overview: The Indian Grey Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) is a grey wolf subspecies inhabiting Southwest Asia and the Indian subcontinent. They differ from other wolf subspecies by having smaller packs and are less vocal.
• Nocturnal Apex Predator: They are primarily nocturnal hunters in India’s scrublands, grasslands, and semi-arid ecosystems.
• Endangered Status: IUCN lists the Indian Grey Wolf as Endangered, with an estimated 2,000-3,000 individuals in India. They are also listed in CITES Appendix I and Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, indicating the highest level of protection.
• Bankapur Wolf Sanctuary: This 332-hectare sanctuary in Karnataka is crucial for wolf conservation. It’s India’s second wolf-specific protected area, with suitable habitat like scrub forests, hills, and caves. The sanctuary also shelters other wildlife like leopards and blackbucks.

Victoria Nyanza

• Cyanobacteria Study in Winam Gulf: Researchers completed a genetic survey of cyanobacteria in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria, Kenya. This highlights ongoing research into the lake’s ecosystem.
• Extent of Cyanobacteria Blooms: Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cyanoHAB) are not limited to coastal areas but widespread across the Winam Gulf. This indicates a potentially serious ecological issue.
• Survival Strategies of Cyanobacteria: Metagenomic analysis revealed that bloom-forming cyanobacteria use diverse survival strategies, including biosynthetic gene clusters (BGC), to adapt to varying environmental conditions. This demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of these organisms.
• Lake Victoria’s Significance: It is the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, bordering Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya and is a source of the White Nile River. The lake also supports the largest freshwater fishery in the world. This underscores the lake’s regional and global importance.
• Economic Impact: Lake Victoria supports the largest freshwater fishery globally, producing 1 million tons of fish yearly, employing 200,000 people, and supporting the livelihoods of 4 million. This showcases its critical role in regional economies.

Quad’s Open Indo-Pacific

• Commitment to Open Indo-Pacific: The Quad (Australia, India, Japan, and the US) reaffirmed their dedication to a free and open Indo-Pacific. This signifies a shared vision for the region’s future.

• Opposition to Unilateral Actions: Quad countries oppose attempts to change the status quo in the Indo-Pacific through force or coercion. This is a direct reference to actions by other nations.

• Reaffirmation of Values: The Quad emphasizes adherence to international law, democratic values, and the territorial integrity of Indo-Pacific nations.

• Opposition to Territorial Claims: The Quad opposes any unilateral actions, particularly China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea and East China Sea.

• India’s Leadership Role: India will host the 7th Quad Leaders Summit in 2025, showcasing its central role in the grouping.

• Quad’s Purpose: The Quad is focused on stability, prosperity, and openness in the Indo-Pacific region.

• Evolution of the Quad: Formed after the 2004 tsunami, the Quad evolved from humanitarian aid to formal meetings. Its format involves Quad-plus meetings, including countries like South Korea, New Zealand, and Vietnam, thus broadening its influence.

Black Tiger, Lodha

• Rare Melanistic Tiger Hunting: Four poachers from the Lodha tribe were arrested for illegally hunting a rare melanistic tiger in Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), Odisha.

  • Why: Highlights the threat to endangered species from poaching.

• Melanistic Tigers: The hunted tiger was a sub-adult from a group of only around 20 such tigers globally.

  • Why: Emphasizes the rarity and vulnerability of this specific tiger population.

• Melanism Defined: Melanism is a genetic condition causing increased melanin production, resulting in darker pigmentation.

  • Why: Provides context to understand the unique appearance of melanistic tigers.

• Similipal’s Pseudo-Melanistic Tigers: STR’s Royal Bengal Tigers have a unique genetic trait causing higher melanin and “pseudo-melanistic” patterns.

  • Why: Showcases a unique genetic variation specific to this region, making it crucial for conservation.

• STR Tiger Population: The 2023-24 AOTE estimates 27 tigers in STR, including 13 adult pseudo-melanistic tigers.

  • Why: Gives a sense of the population size and the significance of melanistic tigers within it.

• Other Tiger Color Variations: Mentions white and golden tigers as variations due to leucism and recessive genes, respectively.

  • Why: Puts melanism in the context of other, better-known color variations in tigers.

• Lodha Tribe Involvement: Members of the Lodha tribe are implicated in the tiger poaching.

  • Why: Raises questions about the socio-economic factors that might drive some members of indigenous communities towards illegal activities.

Mauritius: Key Facts

• Hydrographic Survey Completion: The Indian Navy’s INS Sarvekshak concluded a hydrographic survey of Mauritius, covering over 25,000 square nautical miles.

• Island Nation: Mauritius is an island country in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar.

• Size: It occupies 2,040 sq. km, making it one of the world’s smallest countries.

• Geography: Consists of the main island and several outlying islands; volcanic origin (formed 8 million years ago). Mount Piton is the highest point.

• Climate: Maritime subtropical with fairly uniform temperatures.

• Languages: English (national), Creole, and French are spoken.

• Government: Parliamentary Republic, independent from the UK since 1968. The president is head of state and the prime minister is head of government. Member of COMESA and SADC.

• International Presence: Headquarters for the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Indian Ocean Commission are located in Mauritius.

• Population: Approximately two-thirds of Indo-Pakistani origin. One-fourth Creole, with smaller Chinese and Franco-Mauritian communities.

• “Mini India”: Called “Mini India” due to its large Indian-origin population.

• Geographic Location: Geographically considered part of Africa.

• Visa-Free for Indians: No visa is required for Indian ordinary passport holders.

• Distance from India: Approximately 4,700 kilometers (2,920 miles) from India.

Indus Water Treaty Disputes

• Neutral Expert’s Competence: The World Bank-appointed Neutral Expert (NE) is deemed “competent” to adjudicate disputes regarding the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in Jammu & Kashmir. This supports India’s preference for NE involvement over the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).

• Key Disputes:

  • Kishanganga Project: Pakistan objects to water diversion for the project, claiming it violates the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
  • Ratle Project: Pakistan worries about the dam’s design, particularly spillway gates, giving India excessive control over water flow.
  • Dispute Resolution: Pakistan initially sought NE resolution but later pursued PCA arbitration. India opposed PCA involvement, emphasizing the IWT’s prioritized role of NE.

• Indus Waters Treaty (IWT):

  • Water Sharing: Signed in 1960, it divides the Indus River and its tributaries between India and Pakistan. India has unrestricted use of eastern rivers (Beas, Ravi, Sutlej), while Pakistan gets the western rivers (Chenab, Indus, Jhelum) with limited Indian use allowed.
  • Permanent Indus Commission (PIC): Established for treaty implementation, the PIC requires yearly meetings to ensure the smooth implementation of the treaty.
  • Dispute Resolution: IWT outlines a 3-tier dispute resolution process i.e Resolution by PIC, Neutral Expert and Court of Arbitration

• Challenges with the IWT:

  • Outdated Provisions: Does not address climate change impacts on water availability in the Indus basin.
  • Lack of Flexibility: Rigid water allocation limits adaptive water management strategies.
  • Geopolitical Tensions: Mistrust between India and Pakistan complicates cooperation.

• Way Forward:

  • Renegotiation: Revisiting the IWT is needed to incorporate climate resilience and sustainable water management.
  • Enhanced Dialogue: Prioritize dialogue and trust-building.
  • Third-Party Mediation: The World Bank can facilitate negotiations.
  • Technical Solutions: Emphasize data sharing and joint studies to resolve disputes over projects.

Kerala Sand Mining

• Offshore Sand Mining in Kerala: The Union government’s plan to begin offshore sand mining along Kerala’s coast under the OAMDR Amendment Act, 2023 faces opposition due to ecological and livelihood concerns.

• Economic Motivation: The Centre aims to tap into estimated 750 million tonnes of construction-grade sand resources off Kerala’s coast, identified by GSI surveys since 1985. These reserves could meet Kerala’s construction needs for 25 years and generate revenue through shipping, trade, and GST.

• Auction Plan: The Centre plans to auction sand blocks in five sectors of Kerala’s coastal areas under the OAMDR Amendment Act, 2023.

• Legal Framework: The OAMDR Amendment Act, 2023 governs offshore mineral exploration and extraction, introducing auctions, establishing a trust for affected people, and setting a 50-year lease period.

• Environmental Concerns: Offshore mining poses pollution risks from sediment plumes and toxic wastewater, potentially destabilizing ecosystems, weakening natural defenses, and disrupting sediment dynamics.

• Revenue Disputes: Kerala argues the OAMDR Amendment Act, 2023, doesn’t protect state interests as royalty revenues go entirely to the central government.

• Community Opposition: Fishermen and marine-dependent communities oppose mining due to threats to livelihoods and the ecosystem.

• Climate Change Risk: Disturbing seafloor ecosystems could release stored carbon, accelerating climate change.

• Knowledge Gap: Limited understanding of deep-sea ecosystems raises concerns about unforeseen damage to marine biodiversity.

• Way Forward: Advocate for independent Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), sustainable mining practices, equitable revenue sharing, and community development funds.

RBI’s New ARC Rules

• RBI Revises Master Direction for ARCs: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has updated its guidelines for Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) with the ‘Master Direction – Reserve Bank of India (Asset Reconstruction Companies-ARCs) Directions, 2024.
• Purpose of Revision: The revised norms aim to improve ARC operations, enhance transparency, protect the interests of creditors, and ensure proper due diligence in settlement processes.
• Board-Approved Policy for Settlements: ARCs must have a board-approved policy for settling borrower dues. The policy must include:
  • Cut-off date for eligibility of one-time settlement.
  • Permissible sacrifice for different categories when deciding the settlement amount.
  • Methodology for evaluating the realizable value of the security.
• Settlement Process Requirements:
  • Settlement should only be considered after all other recovery options have been exhausted.
  • Lump-sum payments are preferred. If non-lump sum, payment plans must align with business models, borrower cash flows, and projected earnings.
• Independent Advisory Committee (IAC): An IAC composed of technical, financial, or legal experts is required to review settlement proposals and advise the ARC’s board committee.
• What are ARCs: ARCs are financial institutions that acquire Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) from banks and financial institutions to recover debts. The concept of ARCs was introduced by the Narasimham Committee – II (1998).
• Regulation of ARCs: ARCs are registered under the Companies Act, 2013, and with the RBI under the SARFAESI Act, 2002.
• ARC Operations: ARCs engage in asset reconstruction by acquiring rights in loans, advances, bonds, guarantees, or other credit facilities and securitisation by acquiring financial assets by issuing security receipts to Qualified Buyers (QBs)

Startup India: 9 Years

• 9th Anniversary: Startup India Initiative completed 9 years on January 16th, 2025, also celebrated as National Startup Day.

  • Why: Marks a significant milestone for the program aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

• Initiative Goals: Cultivate innovation, support startups, and stimulate investment to drive economic growth and employment.

  • Why: Defines the core purpose and intended impact of the Startup India initiative.

• Key Schemes: Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), and Startup Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP).

  • Why: Highlights specific programs designed to provide financial assistance, access to credit, and IP protection.

• Key Features: Streamlined registration, simplified compliance, tax benefits, sector-specific policies, and capacity building.

  • Why: Details the key mechanisms put in place to support startups and ease their operational burdens.

• Achievements: Increase in DPIIT-recognized startups to 1.59 lakh, India as the 3rd largest startup ecosystem globally, 16.6 lakh direct jobs created, and increased participation of women entrepreneurs.

  • Why: Demonstrates the tangible impact of the initiative on startup growth, job creation, and inclusivity.

• Challenges: Access to capital (especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities), regulatory hurdles, scaling challenges, and sustainability issues (like market saturation in sectors such as edtech).

  • Why: Acknowledges the obstacles faced by startups, limiting their growth and long-term viability.

• Way Forward: Streamlined regulatory sandbox, targeted skill development, decentralized startup hubs, enhanced tax incentives, robust IP protection, and government procurement boost.

  • Why: Outlines potential solutions to address existing challenges and further strengthen the startup ecosystem.

EntityLock

• New Initiative: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched Entity Locker.

• Purpose: Part of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure initiative to improve business efficiency.

• What it is: A secure, cloud-based solution for businesses of all sizes (MSMEs, corporations, startups).

• Functionality: Enables real-time document access and verification.

• Integration: Integrates with government agencies like MCA, GSTN, and DGFT.

• Key Features:

  • Encrypted cloud storage
  • Digital signature authentication
  • Aadhaar-authenticated role-based access.

• Benefits:

  • Reduces administrative friction
  • Boosts business efficiency
  • Minimizes document processing times.

• Alignment: Supports India’s goal of a digitally empowered economy and aligns with the Union Budget 2024-25 vision for enhanced digital governance and ease of doing business.

Aging Population Challenges

• SC Refusal & Dignified Life: Supreme Court declined a petition for a dedicated Ministry for senior citizens, highlighting their vulnerability and the need for a dignified life under Article 21.
• Rapidly Aging Population: India’s elderly (60+) population is growing rapidly, projected to reach 20.8% by 2050 and exceeding 36% by 2100, outpacing children by 2046.
• Pace of Aging Faster: India’s elderly population is doubling faster than South and East Asia.
• Regional Disparities: Southern states have higher aging indices and old-age dependency ratios compared to the national average.
• Feminization and Ruralization: Aging is increasingly feminized and ruralized, leading to unique vulnerabilities for elderly women and those in rural areas.
• Aging of the Aged: A growing segment is 75+, increasing pressure on support systems.
• Economic Dependency: Many elderly lack pensions or income, leading to financial insecurity.
• Limited Geriatric Care: High prevalence of chronic conditions among the elderly strains healthcare resources and increases reliance on informal care.
• Employability Issues: Age discrimination and outdated skills limit employment opportunities for senior citizens.
• Abuse & Neglect: Elderly are vulnerable to abuse, often unreported.
• Government Schemes: Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana, Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, NSAP, NPHCE, and Atal Pension Yojana address elderly care.
• Way Forward: Elderly self-help groups, multigenerational living, digital inclusion, strengthened healthcare, expanded pension schemes, and policy reforms are crucial.

Why in News: Highlights the need to address the challenges of the growing senior citizen population, which needs specific care under the constitution. The growth is fast in India and needs focus for the system to be able to adapt and deliver well.

Decade of BBBP & SSY

• 10th Anniversary: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) marked their 10th anniversary on January 22, 2025. Celebrations are planned until March 8 (International Women’s Day).

• BBBP Launch & Goals: Launched on January 22, 2015, in Panipat, Haryana, BBBP aims to address declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR), prevent gender-biased sex-selective elimination, and promote the survival, protection, and education of the girl child.

• SSY Launch & Goals: SSY was launched as part of BBBP scheme.to provide financial security for the future of the girl child through opening of bank accounts, focusing on education and empowerment.

• Integration with Mission Shakti: BBBP is integrated with Mission Shakti (women’s safety and empowerment) during the 15th Finance Commission (2021-2026). It will be implemented through its Sambal sub-scheme.

• BBBP Achievements:

  • National Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) improved from 918 (2014-15) to 930 (2023-24).
  • Girls’ Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in secondary education rose from 75.51% (2014-15) to 78% (2023-24).
  • Institutional deliveries increased from 61% (2014-15) to 97.3% (2023-24).

• SSY Achievements: Over 4.1 crore Sukanya Samriddhi accounts opened as of November 2024.

• Key Data on Gender Indicators:

  • Sex ratio at birth improved from 898 (2014-16) to 907 (2018-20) per 1,000 males (SRS data).
  • Women lead men in GER in higher education (AISHE 2021-2022).
  • Maternal mortality declined to 97 per lakh live births.
  • Infant mortality decreased to 28 per 1,000 live births.

• Conclusion: BBBP and SSY have significantly advanced women empowerment in India through improvements in sex ratio, education, maternal and infant health, and financial security for girls.

PFAS: The Forever Threat

• EU Proposed Ban: The European Commission plans to propose a ban on PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in consumer products.
• Exemptions Considered: Essential industrial uses may be exempt from the ban.
• Definition: PFAS are toxic, man-made chemicals hazardous to health and the environment.
• Persistence: Called “forever chemicals” due to their extreme environmental persistence in air, water, and soil.
• Widespread Use: Used in numerous products like cosmetics, non-stick pans, aircraft, and wind turbines because of their resistance to extreme temperatures and corrosion.
• Health Impacts: PFAS exposure is linked to decreased fertility, developmental effects in children, hormonal interference, increased cholesterol, and increased cancer risk.
• Exposure Pathways: PFAS can migrate to soil, water, and air during production and use, contaminating drinking water.
• Listed in Stockholm Convention: Indicating international concern and action regarding these chemicals.
• Removal from Body: Some PFAS may be excreted through urine, breast milk, and menstrual blood.
• Side Effects: Liver damage, thyroid disease, obesity, fertility issues, and cancer are potential side effects.
• Top 5 PFAS: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA are among the most concerning PFAS.

Chandra X-Ray Vision

• Discovery of a Bizarre Black Hole: An international team, using both JWST and Chandra, has discovered a unique black hole. This black hole could offer valuable insights into how supermassive black holes form and grow.

• Chandra’s Role: The Chandra X-ray Observatory was crucial in this discovery because it detects X-ray emissions from extremely hot regions, such as areas around black holes.

• Chandra’s Capabilities: Launched in 1999, Chandra is designed to observe X-rays, which are blocked by Earth’s atmosphere. Its high orbit (up to 139,000 km) allows it to do this effectively.

• Part of NASA’s “Great Observatories”: Chandra is a key part of NASA’s fleet of “Great Observatories,” which also includes Hubble and Spitzer, showcasing its importance in space-based astronomy.

• World’s Most Powerful X-ray Telescope: Chandra’s superior resolution and sensitivity (detecting fainter sources) make it the most powerful X-ray telescope, enabling scientists to study exotic cosmic environments.

• Purpose of Chandra: The primary goal is to study X-ray emissions from the universe’s hottest and most energetic regions to better understand the universe’s structure and evolution.

Mount Ibu Erupts

• Mount Ibu in eastern Indonesia has erupted at least a thousand times this month.
• Mount Ibu is an active stratovolcano on Halmahera Island, Indonesia, reaching 1,325 meters (4,347 feet).
• It has a history of frequent eruptions involving lava flows, ash plumes, and pyroclastic activity.
• Stratovolcanoes are steep-sided, symmetrical cones built from alternating layers of lava, ash, and other volcanic material.
• They are typically found above subduction zones and are often part of volcanically active regions like the Ring of Fire.
• Stratovolcanoes are more prone to explosive eruptions due to gas buildup in viscous magma.
• The Ring of Fire is a path along the Pacific Ocean characterized by high volcanic and seismic activity.
• Mount Ibu is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Sukanya Yojana Explained

• Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) marks its 10th anniversary this year.
• SSY launched in 2015 under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative, encourages investment in girls’ futures.
• Eligibility: Indian citizen, girl child under 10 years, account opened by parent/guardian, maximum two accounts per family. NRIs are not eligible.
• Investment: Minimum ₹250, maximum ₹1.5 lakh per financial year, in multiples of ₹100.
• Tenure: 21 years from account opening, contributions for the first 15 years only. The girl child operates the account after age 18.
• Interest: Determined by the government quarterly, compounded annually.
• Withdrawal: Partial withdrawal (50% of previous year’s balance) allowed after the girl turns 18 or passes 10th grade, for higher education. 100% withdrawal permitted for marriage after 18.
• Premature Closure: Allowed in case of the depositor’s death or on compassionate grounds approved by the Central Government.
• Tax Benefits: Investments, interest, and maturity amount are tax-exempt under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
• Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao aims to raise awareness and improve welfare services for girls.

H5N1 & Demoiselle Cranes

• H5N1 Threat to Demoiselle Cranes: Migratory Demoiselle cranes in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, are at risk due to the spreading H5N1 bird flu.

• Compounding Factors: Unusually high rainfall creating toxic water bodies and pesticide spraying on chickpea fields worsen the threat to the cranes.

• H5N1 Origin and Spread: H5N1 originated in China in 1996 and has since spread globally since 2020. India experienced its first outbreak in 2015.

• Transmission to Humans: Primarily through close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments; person-to-person transmission is rare.

• Demoiselle Crane Migration: These cranes migrate from Siberia to India (especially Rajasthan) during winter.

• Conservation Status: Demoiselle Cranes have IUCN status as Least Concern, while Khichan in Rajasthan hosts a major Demoiselle crane reserve.

• Why it matters: The H5N1 outbreak threatens the Demoiselle crane population in a key wintering ground and raises concerns about potential transmission to humans. Other factors such as toxic water bodies and pesticide use may further endanger the cranes and possibly other wildlife.

Hyena Spots

• Spotted Hyena reappearance: Spotted hyenas ( Crocutta crocutta) have been discovered in southern Egypt after a 5,000-year absence. This is noteworthy because it indicates a potential range expansion or return to a previously inhabited area.

• Physical Characteristics: The spotted hyena has a sandy, yellowish, or grey coat with dark spots. They are carnivores that hunt and scavenge and also largest member of the hyena family. Spots fade with age. Females are slightly larger than males.

• Social Structure: They have a matriarchal social order and live in clans.

• Habitat and Distribution: They are found in open, dry habitats like savannas and semi-deserts throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

• Nocturnal Behaviour: They are mostly nocturnal with excellent night vision, hunting at night.

• IUCN Status: The spotted hyena is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN.

• Diet and Hunting: While often perceived as scavengers, they are primarily predators.

• Relationship with Humans: Hyenas are not friendly to humans and can attack humans

• Physical Appearance: Large head, muscular neck, and powerful jaws.

Mannan People

• Raman Rajamannan, the king of the Mannan community, will participate in the Republic Day parade in Delhi. This is noteworthy as he is the only tribal king in Kerala.

• The Mannan are a Scheduled Tribe (ST) in Kerala and the only existing Adhivasi tribal dynasty with kingship in South India. This highlights their unique cultural and historical significance.

• The Mannan community’s life is closely tied to Tamil culture, speaking a dialect similar to Tamil (but without script) and believed to have originated from Tamil Nadu. This connection to Tamil culture is an important aspect of their identity.

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• Most of the Mannan community (97%) lives in the Idukki district. They were displaced from remote forests to areas near the Periyar Tiger Reserve due to deforestation bans. This relocation impacts their traditional way of life.

• They follow a matrilineal system and elect their ruler (Raja Mannan) through community headmen.

• Their primary occupation is agriculture, and they practice Hinduism, celebrating festivals like Kalavoot, Meenoot, and Mutthiamman Festival. Mannankoothu is a unique ritual art form.

• The Paniyan tribe is the largest tribal community in Kerala, and the Bhil tribe is the largest in India. Adivasis are included as Hindu religion followers in the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955.

Airport Regulator

• PAC Scrutiny: Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has directed AERA to provide a detailed explanation regarding the calculation of User Development Fees (UDF) at airports.

• UDF Transparency: The PAC seeks clarification on the criteria used for UDF calculation, total revenue earned, and how these revenues are utilized by airport operators.

• AERA’s Role: The Airport Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) is a statutory body established in 2008 to regulate the economics of major airports in India.

• Regulatory Functions: AERA regulates tariffs and other charges like development fees and passenger service fees for aeronautical services (air traffic management, landing, parking, ground handling) at major airports.

• Objectives: AERA aims to create a level playing field, promote competition among major airports, foster investment in airport infrastructure, and ensure fair tariffs for aeronautical services.

• Major Airport Definition: A “major airport” is defined as one with annual passenger traffic exceeding 3.5 million (amended from 1.5 million in 2019).

• Ministry Oversight: The Ministry of Civil Aviation is the nodal ministry responsible for AERA.

• Importance: AERA ensures transparency and fairness in airport charges, protecting the interests of both service providers and consumers in the aviation sector.

Oyster Antimicrobials

• News: Research indicates antimicrobial proteins from oyster hemolymph can combat drug-resistant bacteria.

• Why: Addresses the growing threat of antibiotic resistance by offering a novel source of antimicrobial agents.

• Key Finding: Oyster proteins can kill bacteria like Streptococcus spp. and enhance the effectiveness of existing antibiotics (2-32 times).

• Mechanism: Oyster proteins inhibit bacterial biofilms, making bacteria more vulnerable.

• Oysters’ Natural Defense: Oysters possess strong immune systems due to their marine environment, making their hemolymph rich in antimicrobial substances.

• Relevance to Drug Development: Highlights nature as a crucial source for new antibiotics, similar to the origin of most current and developing antibiotics.

• Traditional Use: Oyster-derived substances are used in traditional medicine for respiratory and inflammatory conditions.

• Ecological Importance: Oysters are keystone species that filter water and provide habitat in marine ecosystems. Their antimicrobial properties add to their value.

Chinar

• Chinar trees in Kashmir are being geo-tagged and equipped with QR codes. This is for digital protection and monitoring of these heritage trees.

• QR codes record 25 characteristics. This includes location, health, age, and growth patterns for effective conservation.

• The project is led by J&K Forest Research Institute (FRI). They aim to monitor and manage Chinar trees.

• Chinar (Platanus orientalis) is also known as Oriental plane tree and Boueen. It’s a large deciduous tree that can live for centuries.

• Oldest Chinar said to be 700 years old planted by Sufi Saint Syed Qasim Shah.

• Chinar leaves change color with the seasons. Displaying green in summer and red, amber, and yellow in autumn.

• Chinar tree leaves and bark have medicinal properties. The wood is used for furniture.

• Chinar trees grow in cool climates with sufficient water, especially in the Eastern Himalayas. They are considered a living heritage of Kashmir.

Taiga Tales

• Rapid Warming: Boreal forests are warming four times faster than the global average, signaling accelerated climate change impacts.

• Forest Transition: Nearly half of the world’s boreal forests are transitioning to a more open state with sparser tree cover. This reduces their capacity to store carbon.

• Increased Wildfire Risk: The transition to an open state in boreal forests contributes to a higher risk of wildfires.

• Reduced Carbon Storage: Decreasing tree density in boreal forests compromises their ability to act as carbon sinks, a crucial role in climate regulation.

• Permafrost Thaw: Thawing permafrost in boreal regions may release significant amounts of soil carbon, further complicating carbon storage projections and potentially exacerbating climate change.

• Global Significance: Boreal forests, the world’s largest land biome, cover 30% of global forest area, spanning across countries like Canada, Russia, and the US. They contain vast amounts of freshwater and rival tropical forests in carbon storage capacity.

• Economic Importance: Boreal forests are a major source of lumber and paper exports, highlighting their economic value.

Voter’s Day

• 15th National Voters’ Day (NVD): Celebrated on January 25th across India.
• Established in 2011: To commemorate the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) foundation day (January 25, 1950).
• Focus on Voters: Dedicated to the nation’s voters and promotes new voter enrollment, especially young adults.
• EPIC Distribution: New voters receive their Elector Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) during NVD ceremonies nationwide.
• Multi-Level Celebration: Celebrated at national, state, district, constituency, and polling booth levels.
• Significance: One of India’s most widespread and important celebrations.
• 2024 Theme: “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure” – Continues last year’s emphasis on electoral participation and voter pride.
• Aim: To emphasize the voter’s importance, increase electoral awareness, and encourage active democratic participation.
• ECI Mandate: The Election Commission of India, as per Article 324, conducts elections for Parliament, State Legislatures, the President, and the Vice-President.
• Voter ID: An identity document issued by the ECI to adult Indian residents.
• Appointment of Commissioners: The President of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners.
• Democracy: A form of government where elected representatives hold power.

Stargardt’s

• Potential Treatment Breakthrough: Swiss researchers are developing a gene editing technique that could potentially treat Stargardt disease. This is significant because there is currently no cure.

• Disease Overview: Stargardt disease, also known as Stargardt macular degeneration, is an inherited eye disease primarily caused by mutations in the ABCA4 gene, which affects how the body processes Vitamin A.

• Impact on Vision: The disease leads to progressive vision loss, typically starting in childhood or young adulthood. It is characterized by the buildup of lipofuscin in the macula, the central part of the retina crucial for sharp, central vision.

• Symptoms: The most common symptom is a slow loss of central vision in both eyes. Other symptoms include gray/black/hazy spots in central vision, light sensitivity, and color blindness.

• Prevalence: Stargardt disease affects an estimated 1 in 8,000 to 10,000 people and is commonly observed in males with the onset of the condition in the second decade of life, potentially leading to legal blindness.

• Current Treatment: Currently, there is no cure for Stargardt disease. Management focuses on coping with the symptoms.

• Quality of Life: While distressing, individuals with Stargardt disease can live well with the right support, and the disease does not impact general health or life expectancy.

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• Management, Not Cure: The focus is on managing the condition as there’s currently no way to cure it. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding excessive light, are recommended.

• Vitamin A Consideration: Avoid taking supplements containing Vitamin A as this gene influences how your body uses Vitamin A.

8th Pay Commission

• 8th Pay Commission Approved: The Union government has reportedly approved the formation of the 8th Pay Commission.
• Beneficiaries: 4.5 million central government employees and 6.8 million pensioners (including defence personnel) stand to benefit.
• Purpose of Pay Commissions: PCs are established every 10 years to review and revise the pay scales, allowances, and benefits of central government employees. They consider inflation and the cost of living to ensure fair compensation.
• Established Under: The Department of Expenditure (Ministry of Finance) oversees the establishment of new pay commissions.
• Composition: Typically headed by a retired Supreme Court judge. Its recommendations influence state-owned organizations.
• Historical Context: India has had 7 Pay Commissions since 1947. The 7th Pay Commission (2016-2026) increased government expenditure significantly.
• Focus of the 8th Pay Commission: Likely to propose formulas for revising Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) to address inflation.
• DA Adjustment Basis: DA is adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW).
• Overall Aim: To align government salaries with the rising cost of living, promoting employee welfare and economic growth.

Ratnagiri Excavation

• Recent Excavation: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) resumed excavations at the Ratnagiri Buddhist complex in Odisha.

• Significant Discoveries: Uncovered a colossal Buddha head, a massive palm, an ancient wall, and inscribed relics dating back to the 8th-9th Century AD.

• Historical Context: Odisha (Kalinga) has a deep historical connection with Buddhism, starting with Emperor Ashoka’s conversion after the Kalinga War.

• Ratnagiri’s Importance: Ratnagiri, part of Odisha’s Diamond Triangle (with Udaygiri and Lalitgiri), was a major center of ancient Buddhist learning, rivaling Nalanda.

• Previous Excavations: Earlier excavations (1958-1961) revealed a brick stupa, monastic complexes, and numerous stupas.

• Historical Period: Ratnagiri’s peak construction period is dated between the 7th and 10th centuries.

• Hiuen Tsang’s Potential Visit: There’s a possibility that the Chinese Buddhist monk, Hiuen Tsang, visited Ratnagiri.

• Odisha and Southeast Asia: Odisha had strong maritime and trade links with Southeast Asian countries, playing a vital role in spreading Buddhism.

• Baliyatra Festival: Odisha celebrates the Baliyatra festival, commemorating the ancient maritime and cultural links with Southeast Asia.

WHO

• U.S. Withdrawal: The United States, a major financial contributor (18% of funding), will leave the World Health Organization (WHO) in 12 months.

  • Why: The U.S. cited the WHO’s alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other international health crises as the reason.

• WHO’s Role: The WHO is a UN specialized agency focused on international public health.

• Financial Impact: The U.S. exit will result in the loss of a significant amount of funding for the WHO, potentially impacting its global health initiatives.

• Organizational Structure: The WHO operates through the World Health Assembly (WHA), Executive Board, and a Director-General. The WHA is the decision-making body.

• Global Reach: The WHO has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, with regional and field offices worldwide to increase influence. The South-East Asia Regional office is in New Delhi.

Ibu Volcano

• Eruption Frequency: Indonesia’s Mount Ibu has erupted over 1,000 times this month.

• Eruption Details: The volcano, a stratovolcano on Halmahera Island, has emitted ash columns up to 4 km high.

• Location: Situated on Halmahera Island, within the Pacific Ring of Fire.

• Evacuation: Efforts are underway to evacuate thousands of villagers due to the ongoing eruptions.

• Geological Significance: Part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, important for studying plate tectonics and volcanic processes.

• Hazard Management: The frequent eruptions emphasize the need for effective disaster management.

• Biodiversity: Halmahera Island is part of the Wallacea region, known for unique biodiversity.

• Climate Impact: Volcanic eruptions can release sulfur dioxide and ash, potentially affecting weather and global temperatures.

Railside Turbines

• IR Net-Zero Goal: Indian Railways aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, exploring wind energy along tracks.

• Pilot Project: Western Railway tested mini vertical-axis turbines (1-10 kW) using wind from passing trains.

• Renewable Energy Push: IR has commissioned 487 MW solar, 103 MW wind, and 100 MW RTC renewable energy, with 2,014 MW of renewable capacity planned.

• Logistical Hurdles: Installation and maintenance present complexities, particularly in urban areas with space constraints. Why: Railway tracks are often in constrained environments with limited space, potentially disrupting existing infrastructure and operations.

• Safety Concerns: Turbine failures could endanger trains and passengers. Why: Structural integrity and potential debris from failing turbines directly impact railway safety and require robust safety protocols.

• Wind Suitability: Optimal wind conditions might not coincide with railway corridor locations. Why: Wind turbine efficiency hinges on consistent wind. Railway locations may not always provide suitable wind speeds and directions.

• Space Limitations: Achieving sufficient spacing for turbines along tracks can be challenging. Why: Railway tracks are already built and occupied. Finding room for turbines without disrupting operations is difficult.

• Cost Considerations: High installation and maintenance costs affect economic viability. Why: The initial investment and ongoing upkeep of turbines add to the project’s expenses, potentially outweighing energy savings.

Pluto & Charon: Cosmic Tale

• Charon’s Formation: Charon, Pluto’s largest moon, likely formed from a collision with another celestial body, followed by a “kiss-and-capture” event.

• Binary System: Pluto and Charon are a binary system, orbiting a common center of mass, a unique characteristic in our solar system, located within the Kuiper Belt.

• Kuiper Belt Location: This system resides in the Kuiper Belt, a cold, icy region beyond Neptune’s orbit, populated with icy objects.

• Pluto’s Dwarf Planet Status: Reclassified as a dwarf planet in 2006 by the International Astronomical Union.

• New Horizons Mission Discoveries: NASA’s New Horizons mission revealed surprising features on Pluto, like ice mountains, nitrogen glaciers, and a heart-shaped region (Tombaugh Regio), indicating a dynamic and complex world.

• Pluto’s Moons: Pluto has five known moons: Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, and Styx.

• Pluto’s Physical Characteristics: Pluto was discovered in 1930. It’s smaller than Earth’s Moon (1,400 miles in diameter), with a year lasting 248 Earth years and a day lasting 153 hours.

• Pluto’s Atmosphere and Temperature: Pluto has a nitrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide atmosphere with a blue tint. Surface temperatures are extremely cold, making it uninhabitable.

Aden & Red

• Why in News: India’s Defence Minister has signaled potential rise in maritime threats (piracy, terrorism, conflicts) in the Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, and adjacent East African sea areas.

• Gulf of Aden: Key Facts

  • Extension of the Indian Ocean, between the Arabian Peninsula and Africa.
  • Connects to the Somali Sea and Red Sea (via Bab el Mandeb Strait).
  • Crucial for global trade: 10% of seaborne petroleum and over USD 110 billion of India’s trade passes through it.

• Red Sea: Key Facts

  • Northernmost tropical sea, part of the Great Rift Valley.
  • Located between Africa and Asia, connecting to the Indian Ocean via Bab el Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden. Connects to Mediterranean via Suez Canal.
  • Borders Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, and Djibouti.
• The name Red Sea may originate from the seasonal blooms of a red-colored cyanobacteria (Trichodesmium erythraeum) .

Bose’s Enduring Impact

• Parakram Diwas Celebration: Ministry of Culture to host a grand celebration at Barabati Fort, Cuttack (Netaji’s birthplace) from January 23rd-25th, 2025, marking Subhas Chandra Bose’s 128th birth anniversary.

• Rash Behari Bose’s Death Anniversary: January 21st marks the 80th death anniversary of Rash Behari Bose, a founding leader of the Indian National Army (INA), associated with Subhas Chandra Bose.

• Parakram Diwas Significance: Celebrated annually on January 23rd to honor Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s courage, valor, and patriotism.

• Early Political Involvement: Resigned from Indian Civil Service in 1921 to join the Indian freedom struggle.

• Disagreements with Congress: Differed with Gandhi’s approach, leading to his resignation from Congress presidency and formation of the Forward Bloc.

• INA Formation: Led the Indian National Army (INA) during World War II, seeking international alliances to fight for India’s independence.

• Azad Hind Government: Formed the Provisional Government of Azad Hind in Singapore in 1943.

• Legacy: His leadership, ideology, and call for complete independence have made him one of the most influential figures in India’s freedom struggle.

• Rash Behari Bose’s Role: Laid the foundation for the INA and united revolutionaries for India’s freedom struggle.

• Controversy surrounding death: After the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during WW II , the Japanese surrendered on 16 th August 1945, Bose left South East Asia on a Japanese plane and headed toward China. However, the plane allegedly crashed , leaving SC Bose badly burned , but still alive, according to some accounts.

NMDC: India’s Mining Giant

• India’s Largest Iron Ore Producer: NMDC is the single largest iron ore producer in India, currently producing over 45 million tonnes annually.

• Government of India Enterprise: NMDC is a fully owned public enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, established in 1958.

• “Navratna” Status: NMDC was categorized as a “Navratna” Public Sector Enterprise in 2008.

• Diverse Mineral Exploration: NMDC explores a wide range of minerals, including iron ore, copper, diamond, and more.

• Low-Cost Iron Ore Producer: NMDC is considered one of the low-cost producers of iron ore globally.

• Domestic Market Focus: NMDC primarily sells its high-grade iron ore to the Indian domestic steel market through long-term contracts.

• Mechanized Diamond Mine: NMDC operates the only mechanized diamond mine in India, located in Panna, Madhya Pradesh.

• 5-Star Rated Mining Complexes: All NMDC mining complexes have received a 5-Star rating from the Indian Bureau of Mines.

Exercise Grows Brains

• Key Point: MIT study reveals exercise stimulates neuron growth.

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  • Why: Challenges the conventional understanding, highlighting a bidirectional relationship between muscles and nerves.

  • Key Point: Muscles promote nerve growth through chemical signals (myokines) and mechanical forces.

  • Why: Muscles not only respond to nerve signals but actively contribute to nerve health and regeneration.

  • Key Point: Exercise increases myokine secretion, significantly enhancing neuronal growth.

  • Why: Myokines act as a potent biochemical stimulant for nerve development and improved function.

  • Key Point: Physical stress from muscle contraction mechanically stimulates nerves, boosting neuronal growth.

  • Why: Highlights the direct physical impact of exercise on nerve structure, comparable to chemical stimulation.

  • Key Point: Nervous system facilitates communication between body parts using electrical and chemical signals.

  • Why: Provides context on the nervous system’s overall role in coordinating bodily functions and responses.

  • Key Point: CNS (brain and spinal cord) and PNS (autonomic and somatic) are the main components.

  • Why: Highlights the comprehensive nature of nervous system involvement in both voluntary and involuntary functions.

  • Key Point: Neurons are the fundamental units of the nervous system, transmitting signals.

  • Why: Emphasizes the cellular basis of nerve function and communication within the nervous system.

Narahari Tirtha

• News: A 3-foot statue of the 13th-century saint Narahari Tirtha was discovered at Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

• Who: Saint Narahari Tirtha (1243-1333 AD) was a Dvaita philosopher, scholar, statesman, and saint in the Madhva tradition.

• Origin: He was born in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, into an aristocratic family from Odisha’s Gajapati empire.

• Political Role: He assisted the Eastern Ganga dynasty kings for over 30 years, helping them uphold Sanātana Dharma and structuring temple management.

• Religious Impact: A follower of Madhvacharya, he spread Madhvacharya’s Vaiṣṇavism in the region. His influence helped preserve religious and cultural traditions.

• Intellectual Works: He wrote extensively, but only “Gita Bhasya” and “Bhavaprakasika” are extant. He’s credited with composing the first Devaranamas in Kannada.

• Cultural Influence: He promoted regional art forms like Yakṣagana Bayalaṭa and Kuchipudi.

• Legacy: He was consecrated near Chakratirtha at Hampi after his death. His contributions continue to influence Puri Jagannath temple traditions, strengthening the Madhva tradition in Odisha.

• Why in News: The statue discovery highlights his historical significance and continuing relevance in the region’s religious and cultural landscape.

Cypermethrin Anti-Dumping

• China imposed anti-dumping duty on cypermethrin from India. This is the central event.

• Cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide. Understanding the product is crucial for context.

• It’s used in agriculture and pest control. Shows the significance of the product’s market.

• China cited substantial damage to its domestic industry. This is the stated reason for the duty.

• Anti-Dumping Duty definition: A tax on imports sold below fair market value. This explains the nature of the action.

• Dumping constitutes an unfair trade practice. This offers a global perspective of the topic and also explains the context of what is happening.

• India’s Ministry of Finance imposes the duty, based on DGTR recommendations. This highlights the regulatory framework involved.

Boreal Realms

• Major Transitions Due to Climate Change: Nearly half of the boreal forests are experiencing significant changes because of climate change.

  • Why: This makes them more susceptible to wildfires and impacts their role as a crucial carbon sink.

• Location and Extent: Boreal forests, also known as Taiga, are the largest terrestrial biome, found in high northern latitudes, forming a circumboreal belt across North America, Europe, and Asia.

  • Why: Their vastness makes them vital for global ecological balance.

• Climate and Characteristics: These forests have long, cold winters and short, mild summers, with low temperatures, low precipitation, and frequent snow cover. Dominated by coniferous trees.

  • Why: These conditions shape the specific flora and fauna that can survive there, influencing carbon storage.

• Ecological Importance: Carbon Sink and Biodiversity: They store a significant amount of carbon, more than tropical forests, and support diverse wildlife adapted to cold climates. They provide crucial breeding grounds for migratory birds.

  • Why: Their carbon storage helps regulate the global climate, and they support a variety of species.

DIA Scheme Explained

• The Diamond Imprest Authorisation (DIA) Scheme is a Government of India initiative allowing duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds for export.

• Why: Aims to boost India’s diamond export industry.

• Implementation begins on April 1, 2025.

• Why: Sets a specific date for the scheme’s launch.

• Allows duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds less than ¼ Carat (25 Cents).

• Why: Targets a specific size of diamonds for import.

• Mandates a 10% value addition for exports.

• Why: Ensures some processing and value creation happens within India.

• Eligibility requires Two Star Export House status or higher and US $15 million in annual exports.

• Why: Focuses on established and significant exporters.

• Response to beneficiation policies in diamond mining countries (Botswana, Namibia, Angola, etc.).

• Why: Addresses the need to compete with countries that mandate local processing.

• Aims to support MSME exporters and create a level playing field.

• Why: Helps smaller players in the industry to compete with larger companies.

• Intended to maintain India’s global leadership in the diamond industry.

• Why: Protects and strengthens India’s position in the diamond value chain.

Pralay: India’s Tactical Missile

• Indigenous Development: Pralay is an indigenously developed, short-range, quasi-ballistic, surface-to-surface missile. This highlights India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology.

• DRDO Development: Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), showcasing DRDO’s crucial role.

• Prithvi-Based: Built on the Prithvi Defence Vehicle, leveraging existing missile program expertise.

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• Strategic Deployment: Intended for deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC), indicating its significance in addressing border security concerns.

• Key Features: Solid-propellant rocket motor, 150-500 km range, mobile launch capability, 500-1,000 kg payload.

• Conventional Warheads: Capable of carrying conventional warheads, providing tactical flexibility.

• High Precision: Equipped with advanced guidance systems, achieving a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than 10 meters, signifying accuracy.

• Hypersonic Speed: Reaches terminal speeds of Mach 6.1, enabling rapid target engagement.

• Target Engagement: Designed to engage radar installations, command centers, and airstrips, demonstrating its strategic importance.

• Mid-Air Course Correction: Ability to alter its trajectory mid-flight, enhancing survivability and targeting flexibility.

Denali

• North America’s Highest Peak: Mount McKinley (Denali) stands as the highest peak in North America, reaching 20,310 feet. This makes it a significant landmark and a challenge for mountaineers.
• Location in Alaska: Located in south-central Alaska, near the centre of the Alaska Range, it dominates the Denali National Park and Preserve. This highlights its importance for tourism and conservation.
• Tectonic Origins: The mountain is a giant granite block uplifted by tectonic activity, starting 60 million years ago. Its abrupt rise from the Denali Fault showcases significant geological forces.
• Glacial Features: The upper half of Denali is covered in permanent snowfields that feed major glaciers such as Kahiltna, Muldrow, Peters, Ruth and Traleika Glacier.
• Denali Fault Significance: The Denali Fault’s role in shaping the region and revealing past tectonic plate movements is key. A study indicates the fault split a once unified landmass through 483 km of horizontal movement.

Vaigai Dam

• Vaigai Dam Location: Located near Andipatti in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu, India.
• River Origin: Vaigai River originates in the Varusanadu and Megamalai hills of the Western Ghats.
• Construction Year: The dam was built in 1959.
• Regional Significance: Often called the lifeline of the region it serves.
• River Course: Flows southeast through the Pandya Nadu region, draining into the Palk Strait near the Pamban Bridge.
• Inter-State Water Source: Receives water diverted from the Periyar River in Kerala via a tunnel.
• Tributaries: Major tributaries include Suruliyaru, Mullaiyaru, Varaganadhi, Manjalaru, Kottagudi, Kridhumaal, and Upparu.
• Historical Significance: Mentioned in Sangam literature (300 BCE) and is the major river in Madurai.
• Water Supply: Supplies drinking water to Theni, Madurai, Ramnathapuram, Sivagangai, and Dindigul districts.
• River Length: 258 kilometers long.
• Drainage Area: 7,741 sq. km within Tamil Nadu.

Stateless in Two Nations

• Madras High Court Directive: Instructed the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to consider citizenship for a Sri Lankan Tamil refugee residing in India since 1984, emphasizing rights under Indian law.

• Historical Context: Indian-origin Tamils faced marginalization in Sri Lanka, leading to statelessness after independence (1948) due to Sinhalese nationalism.

• Bilateral Pacts & CAA 2003: The Sirimavo-Shastri Pact (1964) and Sirimavo-Indira Gandhi Pact (1974) intended to grant citizenship, but stalled. CAA 2003 categorized post-1983 arrivals as ‘illegal migrants.’

• Court Interventions: Madras High Court rulings (P. Ulaganathan vs Government of India, 2019 and Abirami S. vs Union of India (2022)) advocate for urgent resolution and a humanitarian approach, referencing Article 21 and the CAA 2019 principles.

• Challenges of Statelessness: Denial of basic rights, limited legal protection, economic exclusion, social marginalization, and intergenerational impacts.

• Acquisition of Indian Citizenship: Citizenship Act, 1955 allows citizenship by birth, descent, registration, and naturalization, with specific conditions for each.

• Way Forward: Requires legislative action to grant citizenship retroactively, simplify naturalization, adopt a humanitarian stance, and foster reconciliation.

• Moral and Legal Obligation: India has an obligation to provide a path to citizenship for approximately 29,500 Indian-origin Tamils currently residing in India.

Capital Punishment

• Context: A Kolkata sessions court sentenced Sanjoy Roy to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of a doctor, despite the CBI arguing for the death penalty. This highlights the ongoing debate around capital punishment in India.

• Rarest of Rare Doctrine: The Supreme Court mandates the death penalty only in the “rarest of rare” cases, established in Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab (1980). This aims to prevent arbitrary application of the death penalty.

• Aggravating and Mitigating Circumstances: Courts consider factors like pre-planning, brutality (aggravating), and mental/emotional disturbance, age, reform potential (mitigating) when deciding on the death penalty. These factors help in a balanced judgment.

• Evolution of Understanding: The interpretation of aggravating and mitigating factors has evolved, with new factors being added over time, reflecting societal changes and legal interpretations.

• Collective Conscience: The Machhi Singh v. State of Punjab (1983) case allows for the death penalty if the crime shocks society’s “collective conscience,” adding a subjective element to the decision.

• Evidence of Non-Reform: The Santosh Bariyar v. State of Maharashtra (2009) ruling emphasizes the need for clear evidence that a convict cannot be reformed, ensuring thorough consideration before sentencing.

• Sentencing Hearing: The court must conduct a separate hearing post-conviction to consider sentencing, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of aggravating and mitigating factors. This ensures fairness.

Asan Reserve

• Location: Dehradun, Uttarakhand, where the Asan River meets the Yamuna. The Asan River flows west to east, unlike most rivers in the region.
• Conservation Status: Declared a Conservation Reserve in 2005 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 by State Government. Uttarakhand’s first Ramsar site. Also an Important Bird Area.
• Ecological Significance: Located within the Central Asian Flyway (CAF), it’s a haven for migratory and resident birds.
• Biodiversity: Home to 330 bird species, including critically endangered (white-rumped vulture, Baer’s pochard), endangered (Egyptian vulture, steppe eagle, black-bellied tern), and vulnerable species (marbled teal, common pochard, Indian spotted eagle). Also hosts 49 fish species, including the endangered Putitor mahseer.

Why in the news:

• The location’s status as a Ramsar site and Important Bird Area makes it significant for conservation efforts and biodiversity.
• Its location within the CAF means it is critical for migratory bird populations, especially threatened species.
• The presence of endangered species, like the Putitor mahseer and various bird species, highlights the importance of its protected status.

Antivenom

• Antivenoms are life-saving medicines: They neutralize snake venom toxins in the body.

• Snake venom is a complex toxin: It contains haemotoxins (blood cell destruction), neurotoxins (paralysis), and cytotoxins (tissue damage).

• Antivenom production involves animals: Horses are injected with small doses of venom to produce antibodies, which are then extracted and purified into antivenom.

• Polyvalent antivenoms (PVAs) in India: These target multiple snake species, but efficacy varies.

• India is a major producer and consumer: However, access and administration issues persist.

• Challenges in India:

  • Delayed treatment: Logistical issues, cultural beliefs, and superstition lead to delays.
  • Infrastructure gaps: Lack of cold storage and power in rural areas.
  • High cost: Limits accessibility for the poor.

• Three types of venom: Haemotoxic (cardiovascular system), Neurotoxic (nervous system), Cytotoxic (cellular sites).

Place Name Changes

• Proposed Renaming: US President (assumed Donald Trump era) issued an executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America and revert Denali back to Mount McKinley.

• Justification: The motivation was to honor American greatness and President William McKinley’s legacy.

• Governance: The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) guides naming conventions but permits domestic alternatives without a strict renaming process.

• Limited International Impact: Mexico and Cuba aren’t obligated to adopt the new name for the Gulf, and international agreements still reference the Gulf of Mexico.

• Gulf of Mexico Significance: It’s the world’s largest gulf, bordered by the US, Mexico, and Cuba, and crucial for US energy, providing significant amounts of crude oil, natural gas, refining capacity and processing capacity.

• Denali/Mount McKinley History: Originally named Mount McKinley, it was renamed Denali in 2015 to honor the indigenous Koyukon people. Reverting would honor President William McKinley.

• Global Parallels: This situation mirrors other international naming disputes, like the Persian Gulf/Arabian Gulf and Sea of Japan/East Sea controversies, reflecting cultural and political tensions.

Ratnagiri Relics

• Location and Significance: Ratnagiri, located 100 km northeast of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a key Buddhist site forming part of Odisha’s Diamond Triangle (along with Udaygiri and Lalitgiri). It’s the most excavated Buddhist site in the state.

• Time Period: It flourished between the 5th and 13th centuries, with its peak between the 7th and 10th centuries.

• Religious Importance: It was a significant center for Mahayana and Tantrayana (Vajrayana) Buddhism.

• Historical Mentions: Possibly visited by Hiuen Tsang in 638-639 AD. First documented in 1905.

• Archaeological Finds: ASI has unearthed a colossal Buddha head, a massive palm, an ancient wall, and inscribed Buddhist relics dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries.

• Bhaumakara Dynasty: Buddhism in Odisha flourished under the Bhaumakara dynasty (8th-10th centuries).

• Southeast Asian Links: Odisha had strong maritime and trade connections with Southeast Asia, trading goods like pepper, cinnamon, silk, and gold. Baliyatra festival commemorates these ancient links with regions like Bali, Java, and Sumatra.

• Establishment: Ratnagiri was likely established around the 6th century during the Gupta king Narasimha Baladitya’s reign and continued to prosper until the 12th century.

Oyster: Pearl of the Sea

• Oysters’ Natural Defenses: Research highlights the strong immune defenses oysters have developed due to their exposure to diverse microorganisms in marine environments. This is significant because it showcases nature’s ability to create solutions to biological problems.

• Antimicrobial Proteins: The study focuses on antimicrobial proteins and peptides found in oyster hemolymph, which effectively combat infections. This is a breakthrough in the search for new antibiotic agents.

• Fighting Antibiotic Resistance: Oyster proteins can kill specific bacteria and enhance the effectiveness of existing antibiotics. This offers a potential strategy against the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which poses a serious global health risk.

• Alternative to Traditional Antibiotics: The discovery of these antimicrobial proteins presents a possible alternative or supplementary approach to conventional antibiotics. It is important because it reduces reliance on synthetic drugs and may lead to more sustainable solutions.

• Oyster Biology: Oysters are marine mollusks found in brackish waters, filtering gallons of water per hour. They possess unique characteristics, including numerous eyes, shell-hiding behavior, and the ability to change gender.

• Oyster Habitat in India: While small oyster beds exist in Kerala and Karnataka, exploitation concentrates on the east coast, specifically in backwaters of Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

Colombia: War Again?

• Escalating Violence: Colombia is experiencing increased violence due to clashes between rival militias.

• Threat to Peace Process: This resurgence of conflict threatens the fragile peace established after the 2016 agreement.

• State of Emergency & Military Deployment: The government has declared a state of emergency and deployed the military in response to the escalating violence.

• Guerilla Groups Involved: Groups that rejected the original peace accords are key actors in the ongoing conflict.

• Control of Strategic Region: The fighting is concentrated in a strategic border region important for coca leaf cultivation, the raw material for cocaine production.

• Refugee Crisis: Hundreds of people have fled to Tibu, Colombia, seeking refuge from the violence, resulting in the establishment of shelters.

• Colombia’s Significance: Colombia is significant for its location as a “gateway to South America,” its biodiversity, and its position as the world’s largest cocaine producer.

AFI: India’s Athletics

• New Leadership: Bahadur Singh Sagoo, a former Asian Games gold medalist and Olympian, has been elected as the new president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). This change signifies a potential shift in leadership and direction for Indian athletics.

• AFI’s Core Role: The AFI is the apex body for athletics in India, established in 1946, responsible for the development and promotion of the sport. This highlights the AFI’s central importance in managing and overseeing athletics within the country.

• AFI’s Affiliations: The AFI is affiliated with World Athletics, the Asian Athletics Association, and the Indian Olympic Association, emphasizing its integration within the global and regional athletic structures.

• Objectives: The AFI aims to popularize athletics, improve athlete performance, and make the sport commercially viable. These objectives provide a clear view of the AFI’s overall goals.

• Key Functions: The AFI organizes national championships, selects teams for international events, promotes athletics through competitions, and focuses on grassroots development and coaching programs. This demonstrates the operational responsibilities of the AFI.

• World Athletics Day: Celebrated annually on May 7th, established by World Athletics to promote youth participation, reflecting the AFI’s contribution to the global athletic community.

Cybersecurity 2025

• Why in News: The World Economic Forum (WEF) released the “Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025” report.
• Critical Infrastructure Vulnerability: Sectors like water, energy, and communications face increased cyberattacks due to outdated tech and interconnectedness. Operational tech, including undersea cables, is at risk. Phishing attacks rose in 2024.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Conflicts (e.g., Russia-Ukraine) exacerbate cyber and physical attacks, impacting energy, telecom, and water sectors. A majority of organizations report that geopolitical tensions have affected their cybersecurity strategy.
• Biosecurity Risks: AI and genetic engineering advancements heighten biosecurity risks, with bio-labs vulnerable to cyberattacks impacting research and safety.
• Cybersecurity Skills Gap: A global shortage of cyber professionals exists (estimated 4.8 million). Many organizations lack adequately skilled personnel to address current threats.
• Cyber Resilience Concerns: Many SMEs perceive their cyber resilience as insufficient. Public sector faces significant resilience and talent challenges.
• Regional Disparities: Incident response confidence varies globally, with lower confidence in Africa and Latin America.
• Cybercrime Profitability: Cybercrime is highly profitable, leading to significant financial losses. The FBI estimates losses exceeded $12.5 billion in 2023.
• Call to Action:
  • Strategic Investment: Modernize legacy systems and protect critical sectors.
  • Public-Private Collaboration: Share threat intelligence and develop secure technologies.
  • Skills Development: Expand training programs and incentivize workforce development.
  • Resilience Focus: Prioritize rapid response and crisis management.
  • International Cooperation: Establish global standards and assist emerging economies.

Slowdown

• Slowdown in GDP Growth: India’s real GDP growth for FY25 is projected to be 6.4%, the lowest in four years.
• Government Blame: The government attributes the slowdown to the RBI’s monetary policy and rupee value interference, though deeper structural issues exist.
• Services Exports-Driven Growth: Post-pandemic growth was fueled by services exports, especially Global Capability Centres (GCCs), which primarily benefitted highly skilled workers, leading to an unequal distribution of wealth and limited consumer demand growth.
• Reduced Upward Mobility: The Indian economy struggles to generate productive employment for the majority, which is impacting consumption.
• Car Market as Indicator: The declining share of the sub-Rs 10 lakh car segment indicates shrinking purchasing power among first-time buyers and those upgrading from two-wheelers, demonstrating a fall in overall demand.
• Labor Market Issues: There’s a lack of productive employment opportunities, with more people self-employed or working in informal sectors. Formal employment growth is driven by low-skill sectors.
• Rising Debt: Increased household debt, at 43% by June 2024, has not significantly boosted consumption.
• Subdued Investment: Low demand visibility and policy uncertainty have slowed down new project announcements, hindering investment.

Trust Funding Rises

• Funding Shift: After the Supreme Court banned electoral bonds, donations to political parties increased significantly through electoral trusts.

• Electoral Trusts’ Role: Electoral Trusts are non-profit organizations that collect contributions from individuals, companies, and institutions to distribute them to registered political parties.

• Transparency Measures: Electoral Trusts must file annual contribution reports with the Election Commission of India (ECI), detailing donors and recipient parties. Audited accounts are also required.

• Legal Framework: Governed under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956 and “The Electoral Trusts Scheme, 2013”, which sets guidelines for registration and operations.

• Distribution Mandate: Trusts must distribute up to 95% of contributions to eligible political parties, with the remaining 5% used for managing the trust’s affairs.

• Tax Benefits: Donors to electoral trusts receive tax benefits under Section 80GGB and Section 80GGC of the Income Tax Act, 1961. Electoral trusts themselves are exempt from income tax.

• Prudent Electoral Trust: The Prudent Electoral Trust saw nearly three-fourths of its donations come after the Supreme Court’s electoral bond ban, highlighting the shift in funding channels.

Inequality Ascendant

• Rising Global Inequality: Oxfam report highlights that billionaires’ wealth is rapidly increasing while poverty remains stagnant, with colonialism exacerbating the divide.

• Billionaire Wealth Growth: Billionaire wealth increased by USD 2 trillion in 2024.

• Widening Gap: The richest 1% own 45% of global wealth. 3.6 billion people live on less than USD 6.85 per day.

• Colonial Legacy: Colonialism continues to shape global inequality, with the Global North benefiting from exploitation and the Global South facing ongoing consequences.

• Power Imbalances: Global institutions like the IMF and World Bank are dominated by the Global North.

• Inheritance: Inheritance is a major driver of wealth, with nearly 60% of billionaire wealth stemming from it.

• Global Inequality Defined: It is the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and power globally, exacerbating poverty.

• Drivers of Inequality: Factors include social factors like gender and race, uneven economic growth, and climate change.

• Impact: Inequality impacts life expectancy, education, and basic services, limiting human rights and fueling conflict.

• India’s Inequality: India’s Gini coefficient is high, with the top 10% holding 77% of the wealth.

• Factors in India: The COVID-19 pandemic, regressive tax system, and lack of access to education contribute to inequality.

• Recommendations: Promote South-South cooperation, progressive taxation, and financial reparations.

Kho Kho Crowned!

• India Wins Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025: India secured both men’s and women’s titles, defeating Nepal in the finals. This marks a significant milestone for the sport.

• Tournament Format: The Kho Kho World Cup 2025, backed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), featured group stages and knockouts for both divisions. This structured competition format elevated the event’s importance.

• Historical Roots: Kho Kho’s origins trace back to ancient India, possibly evolving from military tactics. This rich history adds cultural significance to the sport.

• Modernization: The modern version of Kho Kho took shape in 1914, with formalized rules established by Pune’s Deccan Gymkhana Club. This standardization was crucial for its wider adoption.

• Gameplay: A Kho Kho team comprises 9 active players and 3 substitutes, engaging in alternating roles of chasing, defending, and tagging. The dynamic gameplay makes it an engaging sport.

• Past Demonstrations: Kho Kho was showcased at the Berlin 1936 Olympics. This shows the sport’s earlier ambitions for wider recognition.

• Growing Global Reach: Kho Kho’s international presence has expanded significantly, from 6 countries in 2020 to 55 in 2025. This growth demonstrates its rising popularity worldwide.

• Olympic Aspiration: The International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF) aims to reach 90 countries and targets inclusion in the Olympics by 2036. This highlights the sport’s ambition for the highest level of recognition.

FEMA Rules Eased

• RBI Liberalized FEMA Rules: RBI eased norms under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) of 1999.
• Promotes INR Use: Aims to encourage the use of the Indian Rupee (INR) in cross-border transactions.
• Stabilizes INR: Intended to stabilize the INR, especially during depreciation.
• INR Accounts for Non-Residents: Overseas branches of Authorized Dealer banks can open INR accounts for non-residents. This facilitates INR settlement of transactions.
• Repatriable INR Transactions: Non-residents can settle transactions with other non-residents using balances in SNRR and SRVA accounts.
• Foreign Investment by NRIs: NRIs can use INR account balances for foreign investments, including FDI in non-debt instruments, boosting INR’s role in global investments.
• Foreign Currency Accounts for Exporters: Indian exporters can open foreign currency accounts overseas to settle trade, use export proceeds for imports.

Olive Ridley

• Context: Numerous dead Olive Ridley turtles have washed ashore in Tamil Nadu, specifically Chennai, raising concerns.

• Why it matters: The high number of deaths early in the nesting period (November-March) is unusual and signals a potential threat to the species.

• Species Overview: Olive Ridley Sea Turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) are one of the smallest and most abundant sea turtles.

• Key Characteristics: Small size (60-70cm, 35-50kg), olive-colored heart-shaped shell, found in warm oceans (Pacific, Atlantic, Indian), omnivorous diet (algae, fish, etc.), and a lifespan of 50-60 years.

• Nesting Behavior: Known for “arribadas” – mass nesting events where thousands nest on the same beach. Key nesting sites include India, Mexico, and Costa Rica.

• Indian Context: Nesting occurs across multiple Indian coastal states, with mass nesting primarily in Odisha, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

• Conservation Status: Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, highlighting their conservation significance.

Surgical Tele-Robotics

• First Indigenous System: SSI Mantra, developed by SSI Ltd, is India’s first surgical tele-robotic system.

• Regulatory Approval: Approved by CDSCO (India) under Class B and C surgical devices, confirming safety and efficacy.

• Complex Procedures: Facilitates complex surgeries like Totally Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass (TECAB).

• Advantages: Reduced operation time, improved precision, minimal trauma (smaller incisions, less blood loss), faster recovery, and lower infection risk.

• Challenges: Latency, reliable connectivity, preparedness for technical/medical issues, and higher costs.

• Accessibility: Primarily available in metro and tier-1 cities due to cost factors.

• Tele-Surgery Definition: Telesurgery utilizes wireless networking and robotics to connect surgeons and patients at different locations.

Why in News:

The development and regulatory approval of the SSI Mantra mark a significant advancement in indigenous medical technology, offering potential benefits for patients and surgeons, while also highlighting the challenges of cost and accessibility. It also highlights an emerging surgical system utilizing wireless networking and robotic technology to connect surgeons and patients who are distantly located from one another.

The NBWL: An Overview

• Statutory Body: The NBWL is a statutory body established by the Central Government under Section 5A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (WLPA).
• Top Advisory Body: It is India’s highest-level advisory body to the government on wildlife conservation matters, especially within Protected Areas (PAs).
• Guiding Decisions & Approvals: The NBWL guides government decisions on wildlife conservation and issues approvals for projects within PAs.
• Mandatory Approval: The WLPA requires NBWL approval for activities like constructing tourist lodges, altering PA boundaries, habitat destruction, and de-notification of Tiger Reserves.
• Structure: A 47-member committee is headed by the Prime Minister, with the Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change as vice chairperson. Includes officials, conservationists, and environmentalists.
• Standing Committee: An independent body under NBWL, chaired by the Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. It focuses on project clearances, while NBWL handles policy decisions.
• Replacement: The NBWL replaced the Indian Board for Wildlife, which was formed in 1952.

Australopithecus Explained

• Australopithecus: Closest Relatives: Extinct primate genus found in Africa, considered the closest known relatives to the Homo genus (our genus).

• Time Period: Lived between 4.4 million and 1.4 million years ago (Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs).

• “Southern Ape”: Name refers to the initial South African fossil discoveries.

• “Lucy”: Famous 3.2 million-year-old Australopithecus skeleton found in Ethiopia. Significant because of remarkable preservation, providing key insights.

• Mixed Traits: Possessed a combination of ape-like (face proportions, small brain, strong arms for climbing) and human-like traits (small canines, bipedalism). This is crucial for understanding the evolutionary transition.

• Physical Characteristics: 1.2-1.5m tall, 30-50kg weight, significant sexual dimorphism (males much larger than females). These size and weight estimates provide a picture of their lifestyle.

• Diet: Primarily plant-based. The insights into diet allow us to understand what ecological niche they occupied.

• **Mankind’s Age: ** Homo sapiens evolved around 300,000 years ago based on fossil and DNA evidence. Behavioral modernity – complex technology and culture – appeared more recently, approximately 50,000-65,000 years ago.

NASAMS Explained

• What it is: NASAMS is a medium-range, ground-based air defense system.

• Developed by: Jointly developed by Raytheon (US) and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (Norway).

• Operational since: 1994.

• Widely used: In service in 13 countries, including Norway, Spain, US, Finland, Hungary, Netherlands, Australia, Indonesia, Qatar, Oman, Lithuania, and an undisclosed nation.

• What it defends against: Aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and UAVs, protecting high-value assets and population centers.

• US Defense: Integrated into the US National Capital Region’s air defense since 2005.

• Key features: Networked; integrates with other air defense systems; X-Band radar with 75km range.

• Missiles: Uses AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, modified for ground launch, with ~30km range.

• Engagement Capacity: Can engage 72 targets simultaneously.

• Open Architecture: Increased survivability against electronic countermeasures.

SVAMITVA: Land Rights

• Key Point: The SVAMITVA scheme, aims to unlock economic activity worth over Rs 100 lakh crore by providing property cards to all villages.

• Why: Property cards empower villagers to use their property as financial assets for loans and other financial benefits. This increases land parcel liquidity and financial credit availability.

• Key Point: The scheme provides “record of rights” to rural property owners and issues property cards.

• Why: The cards enable accurate land records for rural planning, helps with property tax determination, and assists Gram Panchayats in taxation, construction permits, and encroachment removal.

• Key Point: SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) uses drones for property surveys and creates GIS-based maps.

• Why: Accurate land records are crucial for village development, efficient land management, and resolving property disputes.

Mount Ibu Erupts

• Frequent Eruptions: Mount Ibu in Indonesia erupted 1,079 times in January 2025. This highlights the volcano’s heightened activity and potential danger.

• Significant Ash Columns: The eruptions produced ash columns ranging from 0.3 km to 4 km. These ash clouds pose hazards to air travel and can impact local air quality and visibility.

• Stratovolcano Type: Mount Ibu is a stratovolcano (or composite volcano), known for explosive eruptions due to its structure of alternating layers of lava, ash, and debris. This type of volcano often leads to significant ashfall during its erruption.

• Location on Halmahera: Situated on Halmahera Island in North Maluku province, Indonesia, the eruptions directly impact the surrounding communities.

• Indonesia’s Volcanic Activity: Indonesia’s location on the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it highly susceptible to volcanic eruptions. This eruption is another example of the country’s ongoing volcanic risks.

• Other Recent Eruptions: Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki and Mount Ruang also experienced eruptions, prompting mass evacuations. These incidents highlight the broader trend of increased volcanic activity in Indonesia.

Contract Farming

• Contract Farming Definition: An agreement where farmers and buyers pre-agree on terms for production and marketing of farm products, including price, quantity, quality, and delivery date. Sometimes includes input provision and production methods.

• Advantages for Farmers:

  • Easier access to inputs, services, and credit, leading to financial support.
  • Improved production and management skills.
  • Secure market access and reduced price-related risks.
  • More stable income and better planning.
  • Introduction of new technologies.

• Concerns for Farmers:

  • Loss of flexibility to sell to other buyers if prices rise.
  • Potential delays in payments and input deliveries.
  • Risk of debt from buyer-provided loans.
  • Environmental risks from monoculture.
  • Unequal bargaining power with buyers.

• First Recognition in India: Officially recognized in India in 2003 through the APMC Act, aiming to create specialized markets for farmers to sell their produce.

ARCs

• Definition: Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) are specialized financial institutions that acquire bad loans (Non-Performing Assets – NPAs) from banks and financial institutions.

• Purpose: They aim to recover or restructure these bad loans, allowing banks to clean up their balance sheets and concentrate on lending.

• Regulation: Governed by the SARFAESI Act, 2002 and regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

• Key Powers (under SARFAESI): ARCs can take possession of secured assets of defaulters without court intervention and manage/recover loans through sale, lease, or restructuring.

• Objectives: To resolve stressed assets, improve financial stability by reducing NPAs in the banking sector, and allow banks to focus on lending.

• Functions: Acquire NPAs at a discount, restructure debt or recover dues through measures such as asset liquidation or settlement, and issue Security Receipts (SRs) to qualified institutional buyers (QIBs) to fund operations.

Kalaripayattu at 38th Games

• Kalaripayattu Downgraded: The Indian Kalaripayattu Federation is protesting the Indian Olympics Association’s (IOA) decision to relegate Kalaripayattu to a demonstration event at the 38th National Games.

  • Why: Demonstration sports are for promotion and don’t contribute to the official medal tally, which is a step down from its competitive status in the previous National Games.

• Kalaripayattu Background: It is an ancient martial art from Kerala emphasizing mind-body coordination, with fighting techniques inspired by animals.

  • Why: The sport’s rich history and prior inclusion as a competitive event in the 37th National Games make its demotion controversial.

• National Games 2025: The 38th edition will be held in Uttarakhand from January 28th to February 14th, 2025.

  • Why: Kalaripayattu, Yogasana, Mallakhambh, and Rafting will be demonstration sports, not competitive. The mascot is ‘Mouli’ (Monal bird), and the tagline is “Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak”.

• Past Performance: Kalaripayattu athletes secured 22 medals (19 gold) at the 2023 National Games when it was a competitive sport.

  • Why: This highlights the sport’s potential and success, making its demotion seem unwarranted.

Entity Locker

• Secure Cloud-Based Platform: Entity Locker is a secure, cloud-based solution for storing, sharing, and verifying documents.

• Target Audience: Caters to a wide range of entities including large organisations, corporations, MSMEs, trusts, startups and societies.

• Digital India Initiative: Critical component of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure, aligning with Union Budget 2024-25 for enhanced digital governance.

• Key Features: Offers real-time document access and verification via government database integration, consent-based sharing, Aadhaar-authenticated access management, and 10 GB of encrypted storage.

• Benefits: Streamlines document sharing, simplifies regulatory compliance, ensures accountability via activity tracking, reduces administrative overhead, and minimizes document processing times.

• Seamless Integration: Integrates with government systems like MCA, GSTN, and DGFT for instant access to critical documents.

• Use Cases: Supports vendor verification (procurement, GSTN, tendering), expedited MSME loan applications, FSSAI compliance, and corporate annual filings.

• Why it Matters: Enhances ease of doing business by simplifying document management and verification processes, reducing bottlenecks and promoting efficiency.

SCOT: Operation Unveiled

• Mission SCOT Success: Indian startup Digantara’s Mission SCOT, the world’s first commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellite, has been successfully launched. The Prime Minister of India lauded it.
• SSA Significance: Mission SCOT enhances Space Situational Awareness by tracking and characterizing space objects and their orbits.
• Object Tracking Capability: It can track Resident Space Objects (RSOs) as small as 5 cm in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This improves the ability to monitor smaller, potentially hazardous space debris.
• Transporter-12 Mission: It was launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission, which provides cost-effective access to space.
• Financial Backing: Mission SCOT is backed by Aditya Birla Ventures and SIDBI, highlighting private sector investment in the Indian space industry.
• India’s SSA Efforts: ISRO already performs collision avoidance maneuvers and utilizes the Multi Object Tracking Radar, but it has a limited range.
• IS4OM & ISSAR: The ISRO System for Safe and Sustainable Operations Management (IS4OM) generates the annual Indian Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR).
• NETRA Project: ISRO’s NETRA project is establishing a Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) network with advanced radars and optical telescopes. This will strengthen India’s capability to protect its space assets.
• Why it matters: Mission SCOT improves India’s space security and ability to track objects in space. It signifies the rise of Indian space startups and their contributions to SSA. It promotes sustainability in space. It also reduces ISRO’s burden.

Kalari

• Ancient Martial Art: Kalaripayattu is one of the oldest and most scientific martial art forms globally.

• Origin: It originated and is widely practiced in Kerala, India.

• Kalari: The term “Kalari” refers to the traditional gymnasium where Kalaripayattu is taught.

• Founder (Mythology): The warrior sage Parasurama is credited with establishing Kalaripayattu.

• Four Stages: The art consists of four stages: Maippayattu (body conditioning), Kolthari (wooden weapons), Angathari (metal weapons), and Verumkai (bare-hand fighting).

• Verumkai Focus: The bare-hand fighting stage (Verumkai) involves knowledge of body anatomy for strategic strikes.

• Regional Styles: Three main ethnic styles exist in northern Kerala: Vattenthirippu, Arappukkai, and Pillathangi.

• Shaolin Temple Connection: Legend says Kalaripayattu influenced martial arts at the Shaolin Temple in China via Bodhidharma in the 5th century AD. Bodhidharma was originally from Thanjavore, a cultural center that was part of Kerala but is now in Tamil Nadu.

Midges: Tiny Bites

• Midges (Culicoides genus) are tiny, blood-sucking insects related to mosquitoes, locally known as bhusi flies.
• Five species of midges transmit the bluetongue virus to livestock.
• Bluetongue disease symptoms include blue tongue, fever, facial swelling, and excessive salivation, potentially leading to death in livestock.
• A recent study (2022-2023) identified 17 midge species that bite humans, but no human disease transmission has been reported yet.
• Thirteen new midge species have been recorded in India: C. barnetti, C. gouldi, C. flaviscutellaris, C. flavipunctatus, C. hui, C. histrio, C. guttifer, C. perornatus, C. okinawensis, C. quatei, C. obscurus, C. coronalis, and C. kusaiensis.
• India now has 93 known Culicoides species, many of which are vectors of animal pathogens.
• Culicoides have a cosmopolitan distribution, excluding New Zealand and Antarctica.
• Midges are vectors for approximately 60 viruses, 40 protozoans, and 24 filarial nematodes, impacting livestock, wildlife, and potentially humans.
• Bluetongue virus causes a severe hemorrhagic disease (bluetongue) in ruminants like cattle, sheep, goats, buffalo, deer, antelope, and camels.

Nigeria in BRICS

• Nigeria named a BRICS “partner country” by Brazil, which will hold the BRICS presidency in 2025. This signifies a closer relationship without full membership.

• Nigeria is the 9th nation to become a BRICS partner, alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. This allows for participation in summits and meetings.

• Partner country status involves attending BRICS events and participating in joint ventures, but without formal decision-making power or membership rights.

• Nigeria’s significance stems from having the world’s 6th largest population, Africa’s largest population, and being Africa’s 4th largest economy, solidifying its “Giant of Africa” status and influence.

• BRICS aims to be a counterweight to the G7, representing a shift in global power dynamics, with Nigeria’s inclusion indicating a recognition of its growing importance on the world stage.

• BRICS is expanding; countries like Indonesia have officially joined as members, while others such as Turkey, Azerbaijan and Malaysia have applied for membership, reflecting the group’s growing influence.

ARCs Explained

• Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) buy bad debts (Non-Performing Assets or NPAs) from banks at an agreed value. This helps banks clean up their balance sheets.

• ARCs try to recover these debts themselves, often through restructuring, enforcement of security interests, or selling the assets.

• ARCs are registered with the RBI and are governed by the SARFAESI Act, 2002, functioning under RBI supervision.

• ARCs raise funds from Qualified Buyers (Financial Institutions, Banks, Insurance companies etc) to purchase bad debts and are prohibited from accepting public deposits.

• ARCs must have a minimum net owned fund (NOF) of Rs 300 crore and maintain a capital adequacy ratio of 15%.

• RBI’s New Rules: Aim to ensure transparency and accountability in how ARCs settle dues with borrowers.

• Board-Approved Policy: Each ARC needs a policy governing settlement of dues.

• Independent Advisory Committee (IAC): Required for settlements over Rs 1 crore; comprised of experts to assess borrower’s financial position and recovery prospects.

• Board Oversight: Board must deliberate IAC recommendations and document decision-making.

• Stringent Procedures: Apply to settlements involving willful defaulters or fraud cases, regardless of the settlement amount.

• Settlements < 1 cr: Approvals cant be done by officials who were involved in the financial asset acqusition.

• Reporting Requirements: Regular analysis of settled accounts is mandatory.

• Asset Reconstruction vs. Securitization: Asset reconstruction involves acquiring rights in existing loans to recover funds. Securitization is acquiring financial assets through security receipts.

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Buddhist Footprint

• Odisha Discoveries: Archaeological Survey of India finds Buddha head, palm, wall, and relics in Ratnagiri, Odisha, dating back to 8th-9th centuries AD, indicating the spread of Buddhism to Southeast Asia through Odisha.

• Odisha’s Buddhist Influence: Buddha’s disciples and Emperor Ashoka played key roles in spreading Buddhism. Hiuen Tsang’s visit to Odisha provided insights into the region.

• Ratnagiri Significance: A key Buddhist learning center from the 7th-10th centuries, rivaling Nalanda, showcasing Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. Unique Buddha sculptures with distinctive hairstyles.

• Maritime Trade’s Role: Odisha’s trade with regions like Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Sri Lanka facilitated the spread of Buddhism to Southeast Asia. Baliyatra festival commemorates maritime ties.

• Southeast Asia Adoption: Southeast Asian rulers adopted Buddhism to strengthen authority. Buddhism blended with local beliefs and Hinduism (e.g., Angkor Wat, Borobudur).

• Global Spread: Buddhism spread to Myanmar and Thailand by the 5th century CE, becoming Theravada Buddhism. By the 7th century CE, Buddhism had significantly influenced Chinese culture, Korean and Japan.

• Key Buddhist Sites in India: Bodh Gaya (enlightenment), Sarnath (first sermon), Kushinagar (Parinirvana), Nalanda University (ancient learning center), Dharamshala (Tibetan Buddhism), Ellora & Ajanta Caves (rock-cut temples).

• Conclusion: Odisha’s heritage and India’s role in spreading Buddhism across Asia reflect its global influence and profound contributions.

WESO Trends 2025

• Steady Global Unemployment: Global unemployment remains at 5% in 2024, but youth unemployment is high at 12.6%, especially in upper-middle-income countries (16%). This highlights inequality and the need for targeted youth employment programs.

• Regional Disparities: Sub-Saharan Africa struggles with informal employment, lacking stability and social protection, where 62.6% of households live on less than USD 3.65 per day. This underlines the need for formalization and social safety nets.

• Economic Growth Slowdown: Economic growth is decelerating, hindering job creation. Focus should be on sustainable and inclusive growth policies to generate more employment opportunities.

• Large Global Jobs Gap: 402 million people face a jobs gap, demonstrating unmet labor market needs beyond unemployment figures. This emphasizes addressing discouraged workers and caregiving barriers.

• NEET Challenge: 259.1 million youth are NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), disproportionately affecting young women.This emphasizes the need for skill development programs and addressing gender disparities.

• Debt Distress in Developing Countries: High debt burdens limit investments in essential services and job creation. Debt restructuring and international aid are crucial.

• Weak Wage Growth: Stagnant real wages reflect a power shift to employers and hinder living standards. Strengthening worker rights and collective bargaining is essential.

• Uneven Green Transition Benefits: Renewable energy creates jobs, but benefits are concentrated in certain regions, like China. Equitable distribution of green jobs requires investments in infrastructure and skills development in other countries.

• ILO Recommendations: LICs should leverage remittances for productive investments, countries should focus on modern services and manufacturing to create quality jobs, Youth should be provided with the skills necessary for participation in modern labor markets and international collaboration , sustainable growth, and inclusive fiscal and monetary policies that benefit all workers should be promoted.

Uncharted Territory

• India’s Robotic Surgery Advancement: India successfully conducted two heart surgeries using its first indigenous surgical tele-robotic system, the SSI Mantra, demonstrating a breakthrough in remote surgical capabilities.

• SSI Mantra Details: Developed by SS Innovations, SSI Mantra is approved for telesurgery and remote surgical training. Its features include ultra-low latency (35-40 milliseconds) and high precision, enabling complex procedures like Totally Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass (TECAB).

• Significance: The system facilitates access to expert surgical care in remote regions, overcoming geographical barriers and improving patient outcomes through minimally invasive techniques.

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• Robotics Applications Beyond Healthcare: Robots are utilized across various sectors, including industry, defense, agriculture, disaster management, and space exploration.

• Challenges in Healthcare Robotics Adoption:

  • High initial costs of robotic systems.
  • Training and skill gaps for surgeons and medical staff.
  • Ethical concerns regarding accountability and patient safety in telesurgery.
  • Patient trust issues with remote surgeries.
  • Potential job displacement due to automation.
  • Cybersecurity risks associated with increased connectivity.

• Way Forward:

  • Cost-effective solutions through government support and private sector collaboration.
  • Bridging skill gaps via integrating robotic surgery training into medical curricula.
  • Managing ethical concerns through clear regulations and backup systems.
  • Mitigating job loss with upskilling programs and human-robot collaboration.
  • Addressing cybersecurity risks through encryption and standardized frameworks.